By Army Pfc. Jasmine N. Walthall
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - An 18-year veteran of the New York City Fire Department is achieving another veteran status here, this time as a soldier. Army Pfc. Steven P. Fitzgerald, from Floral Park, N.Y., is serving as an intelligence analyst in Iraq.
Fitzgerald has served in the fire department since 1990, following in his father's firefighting footsteps. But the citywide battalion chief jumped at the chance to enlist in the Army after his fiancée, Army Spc. Viviana B. Molina, informed him of a new Army age limit.
Fitzgerald joined his fiancee's unit -- the New York Army National Guard's 3-142nd Assault Helicopter Battalion, from Ronkonkoma, N.Y. -- in July 2007 at age 41, a decision he said was long overdue.
"There were so many people I knew personally who passed during 9/11, and all I did was pay my taxes and practice my golf swing," Fitzgerald said. "My goal was to do my part by coming to Iraq and serving my country."
The decision to start an Army career when he was nearing retirement in his civilian career came as a shock to Fitzgerald's family and friends.
"Everyone thought I was crazy or going through a midlife crisis," Fitzgerald said. "I wasn't looking to prove anything or get attention; I just wanted to do my part, and it was worth it."
While basic combat training and advanced individual training came relatively easy for Fitzgerald, both physically and mentally, there were a few challenges he had to overcome.
"My biggest challenge was working with young adults who could be my children," Fitzgerald said. "However, I was in awe that there were soldiers here doing more at 21 years old than I ever thought of doing.
"I also had to deal with being a lower enlisted [soldier] and having to take orders, where I was previously in a position to give orders to 400 to 500 firefighters," he added.
Army Maj. Fred J. Evans, 3-142 AHB intelligence officer, commended Fitzgerald's decision to join.
"I can't say that I would have done the same thing if I was in his position, but I am proud that he did," Evans said. "He is very accountable, and because of his civilian job, I tend to give him more tasks and responsibilities than the average private first class."
Fitzgerald said he plans to finish work on a master's degree and to look into the possibility of warrant officer school when his deployment is over in six months. In the meantime, he said, he's just proud to serve.
"To be able to say in June of 2009 that I am a veteran in the U.S. Army is a big deal," he said. "I am proud to say that I am serving my country and have done my part, and would definitely do it again."
(Army Pfc. Jasmine N. Walthall serves with Multinational Division Center.)
Friday, December 12, 2008
Gates Visits U.S. Naval Forces Central Command in Bahrain
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates visited U.S. Naval Forces Central Command headquarters here today prior to the start of the International Institute for Strategic Studies Manama Dialogue. Gates met with Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of U.S. Central Command, Navy Vice Adm. William E. Gortney, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, and other senior U.S. and Persian Gulf region officials to discuss regional security issues.
"This is a great opportunity to showcase the Navy's commitment to the region," Gortney said. "We will continue to work with our partners in the region to help ensure security and stability to build a lawful maritime order. We've been here for 60 years, and we'll be here for many more to come."
The Manama Dialogue is a symposium designed for discussion of security and stability in the region.
While in the Middle East, Gates will discuss regional security with his counterparts from various nations and will meet with Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
This is Gates' first trip to Bahrain since December 2007.
(From a Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet news release.)
Dec. 12, 2008 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates visited U.S. Naval Forces Central Command headquarters here today prior to the start of the International Institute for Strategic Studies Manama Dialogue. Gates met with Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of U.S. Central Command, Navy Vice Adm. William E. Gortney, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, and other senior U.S. and Persian Gulf region officials to discuss regional security issues.
"This is a great opportunity to showcase the Navy's commitment to the region," Gortney said. "We will continue to work with our partners in the region to help ensure security and stability to build a lawful maritime order. We've been here for 60 years, and we'll be here for many more to come."
The Manama Dialogue is a symposium designed for discussion of security and stability in the region.
While in the Middle East, Gates will discuss regional security with his counterparts from various nations and will meet with Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
This is Gates' first trip to Bahrain since December 2007.
(From a Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet news release.)
Holiday Wreaths to Adorn Arlington Gravesites
By Donna MilesAmerican Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - Volunteers will gather at noon tomorrow at Arlington National Cemetery to place holiday wreaths on veterans' gravesites as part of the nationwide "Wreaths Across America" project. The Worcester Wreath Company from Harrington, Maine, has donated about 90,000 wreaths for the program since its president, Morrill Worcester, started the annual tradition in 1992. Working with the National Cemetery Administration and a bevy of volunteers, the company has made balsam fir wreaths with bright red bows to adorn every headstone at Arlington.
Last year, the project that began with a trailer load of wreaths and 25 volunteers went national. In addition to placing 10,000 wreaths at Arlington, volunteers placed 22,553 additional wreaths at veterans' gravesites at 286 locations nationwide.
Worcester expects to top that number this year, placing about 100,000 wreaths on veterans' graves at 350 different sites.
"Our goal is to expand the recognition of those who serve our country, both past, present and future, as well as their families who deserve our support," he said. "Without the sacrifices of our veterans, there would be no opportunity to enjoy the freedoms, the life we live today."
While honoring veterans' service, Worcester said the program inspires others to renew their commitment to honor those who have served and serve today in the military.
"To each, and especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice, we owe unwavering support and a profound debt of gratitude for preserving the way of life we all enjoy here in the United States of America," he said.
Pentagon Official Urges Broad Approach to Piracy
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - The United States has submitted to the United Nations Security Council a draft resolution that reportedly seeks to allow forces to pursue Somalia-based pirates onto Somali turf. But Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman today emphasized that addressing piracy in the region -- where more than 60 ships reportedly have been attacked this year -- requires more than a military response.
"I think there are many that are seeking a simple military solution, or solely a military solution, to address the piracy issue," he said. "And I think we need a more comprehensive look at this.
"While there may be a military component, this is an issue that has to be addressed more broadly," Whitman said, adding that representatives of diplomacy, industry and law also could play roles in a response.
Whitman said the military is assessing how it can contribute in dealing with piracy.
"As the United States military, we are looking at the full range of options that might be available to the commander in chief to address these kinds of things," he said.
The resolution reportedly will be discussed next week during a meeting of the 15-nation U.N. Security Council.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - The United States has submitted to the United Nations Security Council a draft resolution that reportedly seeks to allow forces to pursue Somalia-based pirates onto Somali turf. But Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman today emphasized that addressing piracy in the region -- where more than 60 ships reportedly have been attacked this year -- requires more than a military response.
"I think there are many that are seeking a simple military solution, or solely a military solution, to address the piracy issue," he said. "And I think we need a more comprehensive look at this.
"While there may be a military component, this is an issue that has to be addressed more broadly," Whitman said, adding that representatives of diplomacy, industry and law also could play roles in a response.
Whitman said the military is assessing how it can contribute in dealing with piracy.
"As the United States military, we are looking at the full range of options that might be available to the commander in chief to address these kinds of things," he said.
The resolution reportedly will be discussed next week during a meeting of the 15-nation U.N. Security Council.
Admiral Pledges Ongoing Support of Humanitarian Efforts
By Navy Lt. Jennifer Cragg
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - Humanitarian missions will be an important element of U.S. 4th Fleet's long-term planning efforts, the fleet commander told bloggers and online journalists yesterday. Navy Rear Adm. Joseph Kernan, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet, pledged his commitment to humanitarian efforts like the recent Continuing Promise 2008, a humanitarian and civic-assistance deployment to the Southern Command area that wrapped up in early December.
"We're going to continue every year ... to do an exercise like a Continuing Promise, and also every asset that goes into the region or the theater is going to do Continuing Promise-like activities, whether it's humanitarian, whether it's a construction project or things of that nature," the admiral said.
The Continuing Promise Caribbean Phase, aboard USS Kearsarge, was the second of two humanitarian and civic assistance deployments to the Southern Command area of focus for 2008. The first Continuing Promise deployment was conducted by USS Boxer to the Pacific.
Kearsarge's mission was to conduct joint civil-military operations, as well as veterinary, medical, dental and civil-engineer support to six partner nations. The goal was to send a message of compassion, support and commitment to Central and South America and the Caribbean, Kernan said.
"We went down there in Continuing Promise with no intent. ... We didn't invite presidents of countries to visit, but I'll tell you, after [we were] there for about a week, presidents of countries showed up in three different places," Kernan said.
The admiral said one of the presidents who visited, President Daniel Ortega of Nicaragua, was impressed when he saw the efforts to help his country.
Kernan said what most impressed him during the deployment was the young sailors who unselfishly volunteered their time to help others in need.
"When the youth go in there, 17- to 24-year-olds, hundreds of them ashore, ... [it accomplishes] two things," Kernan said. "Number one, they can connect to the people, the young generation of that country; and number two, it tells them that these are the types of people that are going to lead America, and this is where their values and their interests are -- and it was unbelievable."
Kernan continued to witness his sailors' volunteerism throughout the deployment, particularly following the devastating path of destruction left by tropical storms Fay, Gustav, Hanna and Hurricane Ike. "If you went to Haiti ... it would bring a tear to your eye [to see] the hundreds of sailors that volunteered every day to go ashore in the hot sun and carry 110-pound bags," he said.
On Sept. 12, U.S. 4th Fleet diverted Kearsarge from Santa Marta, Colombia, to assist the U.S. Agency for International Development in recovery efforts. During the six-day diversion to Haiti, Kearsarge transported food, cargo and equipment between Port-au-Prince and Gonaives, Jeremie, Saint Marc, Port de Paix, Jacmel and Les Cayes.
The admiral said that while sailors aboard Kearsarge taught him valuable lessons in humanity, so did nongovernmental organizations such as Operation Smile and Operation Hope that participated in Continuing Promise. Additionally, Brazil, Canada, France, Nethrlands and Spain also joined in the humanitarian efforts.
"You've got to be really inclusive of all of the countries, and we invite them on every single mission to come with us and be a part of what we're doing, so the country that we're working in can see that their country is also contributing to the humanitarian efforts," Kernan said.
This type of partner-nation building continues despite Kearsarge's completion of its four-month deployment. Kernan added that U.S. 4th Fleet is offering cyber-medicine in El Salvador.
"We ... [left] audio-video equipment [with the] doctors in El Salvador ... People up here in [Naval Station Mayport, Fla.] can watch what they're doing and advise them on how to conduct the particular procedures, so it's kind of our way to do persistence without actually being there," Kernan said.
(Navy Lt. Jennifer Cragg works in the New Media directorate of the Defense Media Activity.)
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - Humanitarian missions will be an important element of U.S. 4th Fleet's long-term planning efforts, the fleet commander told bloggers and online journalists yesterday. Navy Rear Adm. Joseph Kernan, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet, pledged his commitment to humanitarian efforts like the recent Continuing Promise 2008, a humanitarian and civic-assistance deployment to the Southern Command area that wrapped up in early December.
"We're going to continue every year ... to do an exercise like a Continuing Promise, and also every asset that goes into the region or the theater is going to do Continuing Promise-like activities, whether it's humanitarian, whether it's a construction project or things of that nature," the admiral said.
The Continuing Promise Caribbean Phase, aboard USS Kearsarge, was the second of two humanitarian and civic assistance deployments to the Southern Command area of focus for 2008. The first Continuing Promise deployment was conducted by USS Boxer to the Pacific.
Kearsarge's mission was to conduct joint civil-military operations, as well as veterinary, medical, dental and civil-engineer support to six partner nations. The goal was to send a message of compassion, support and commitment to Central and South America and the Caribbean, Kernan said.
"We went down there in Continuing Promise with no intent. ... We didn't invite presidents of countries to visit, but I'll tell you, after [we were] there for about a week, presidents of countries showed up in three different places," Kernan said.
The admiral said one of the presidents who visited, President Daniel Ortega of Nicaragua, was impressed when he saw the efforts to help his country.
Kernan said what most impressed him during the deployment was the young sailors who unselfishly volunteered their time to help others in need.
"When the youth go in there, 17- to 24-year-olds, hundreds of them ashore, ... [it accomplishes] two things," Kernan said. "Number one, they can connect to the people, the young generation of that country; and number two, it tells them that these are the types of people that are going to lead America, and this is where their values and their interests are -- and it was unbelievable."
Kernan continued to witness his sailors' volunteerism throughout the deployment, particularly following the devastating path of destruction left by tropical storms Fay, Gustav, Hanna and Hurricane Ike. "If you went to Haiti ... it would bring a tear to your eye [to see] the hundreds of sailors that volunteered every day to go ashore in the hot sun and carry 110-pound bags," he said.
On Sept. 12, U.S. 4th Fleet diverted Kearsarge from Santa Marta, Colombia, to assist the U.S. Agency for International Development in recovery efforts. During the six-day diversion to Haiti, Kearsarge transported food, cargo and equipment between Port-au-Prince and Gonaives, Jeremie, Saint Marc, Port de Paix, Jacmel and Les Cayes.
The admiral said that while sailors aboard Kearsarge taught him valuable lessons in humanity, so did nongovernmental organizations such as Operation Smile and Operation Hope that participated in Continuing Promise. Additionally, Brazil, Canada, France, Nethrlands and Spain also joined in the humanitarian efforts.
"You've got to be really inclusive of all of the countries, and we invite them on every single mission to come with us and be a part of what we're doing, so the country that we're working in can see that their country is also contributing to the humanitarian efforts," Kernan said.
This type of partner-nation building continues despite Kearsarge's completion of its four-month deployment. Kernan added that U.S. 4th Fleet is offering cyber-medicine in El Salvador.
"We ... [left] audio-video equipment [with the] doctors in El Salvador ... People up here in [Naval Station Mayport, Fla.] can watch what they're doing and advise them on how to conduct the particular procedures, so it's kind of our way to do persistence without actually being there," Kernan said.
(Navy Lt. Jennifer Cragg works in the New Media directorate of the Defense Media Activity.)
National Guard Prepares to Celebrate 372nd Birthday
By Renee Hylton
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - The United States is a young country, but four of the oldest military organizations in the world are in the country's National Guard. The National Guard celebrates its 372nd birthday tomorrow. On Dec. 13, 1636, the Massachusetts Bay Colony divided its citizen-soldiers, or militia, into the North, South and East regiments.
The Massachusetts Bay colony was seven years old in 1636. About 5,000 men, women, and children had made the two-month voyage to the New World, leaving behind the relative comfort and safety of England. In Massachusetts, they confronted a wilderness of dense forests, wild animals and suspicious Indians.
The colonists needed a military force for protection, but they had no money to hire a mercenary army, which was common practice in Europe at the time. So they turned to the English tradition of the militia -- citizen-soldiers who gathered for military training and who could fight when needed.
In Massachusetts, all able-bodied men between ages 16 and 60, except ministers and judges, were required to join the militia. By 1636, the Massachusetts Bay Colony militia was large enough to be divided into three separate regiments.
Today, the military lineage of these regiments from 1636 is carried on by the 101st Engineer Battalion, the 101st Field Artillery, the 181st Infantry and the 182nd Cavalry, which are all still part of the Massachusetts Army National Guard. These four units, in one form or another, have been in continuous service since 1636, and are the oldest units in the U.S. Army.
Much has changed in this country since 1636, but one thing has not: citizen-soldiers still gather to train and deploy as they have for 372 years.
(Renee Hylton works in the National Guard Bureau.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - The United States is a young country, but four of the oldest military organizations in the world are in the country's National Guard. The National Guard celebrates its 372nd birthday tomorrow. On Dec. 13, 1636, the Massachusetts Bay Colony divided its citizen-soldiers, or militia, into the North, South and East regiments.
The Massachusetts Bay colony was seven years old in 1636. About 5,000 men, women, and children had made the two-month voyage to the New World, leaving behind the relative comfort and safety of England. In Massachusetts, they confronted a wilderness of dense forests, wild animals and suspicious Indians.
The colonists needed a military force for protection, but they had no money to hire a mercenary army, which was common practice in Europe at the time. So they turned to the English tradition of the militia -- citizen-soldiers who gathered for military training and who could fight when needed.
In Massachusetts, all able-bodied men between ages 16 and 60, except ministers and judges, were required to join the militia. By 1636, the Massachusetts Bay Colony militia was large enough to be divided into three separate regiments.
Today, the military lineage of these regiments from 1636 is carried on by the 101st Engineer Battalion, the 101st Field Artillery, the 181st Infantry and the 182nd Cavalry, which are all still part of the Massachusetts Army National Guard. These four units, in one form or another, have been in continuous service since 1636, and are the oldest units in the U.S. Army.
Much has changed in this country since 1636, but one thing has not: citizen-soldiers still gather to train and deploy as they have for 372 years.
(Renee Hylton works in the National Guard Bureau.)
Alaska Guard Continues 'Operation Santa Claus' Tradition
By Army Spc. Paizley Ramsey
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - Children from rural Alaskan communities were treated to an early Christmas this year, thanks to the Alaska National Guard's "Operation Santa Claus." The community relations and support program provides toys, books and school supplies for young people in communities across the state.
The 50-year tradition continued this week in Kivalina, a city in Alaska's Northwest Arctic borough. More than 100 students from McQueen School received books, presents, a holiday meal and a new Operation Santa Claus feature, photos with Santa, on Dec. 6.
"This is so much fun, and the presents are really cool," Jasmine Adams, 14, said.
Fellow student Warren Hawley, 13, agreed. "This is the best, better than anything," he said. "This doesn't happen very much, and we want you guys to come back."
Residents also enjoyed a surprise visit from Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin.
"It's wonderful to be here in Kivalina to celebrate the holidays and to be able to do this for the children of the community," said Palin, who was accompanied by her daughter Piper. "It's good to be able to show our support for the National Guard and to show the people of Alaska what our Guard is up to."
Several military guests were on hand, including Air Force Gen. Carrol H. Chandler, Pacific Air Forces commander; Air Force Lt. Gen. Craig E. Campbell, Alaska's adjutant general; Air Force Lt. Gen. Dana T. Atkins, Alaskan Command commander; and Army Brig. Gen. Thomas H. Katkus, Alaska Army National Guard commander.
"The greatest thing about Operation Santa Claus is that we get to share our gifts, and the people of the communities get to share their culture," Campbell said. "Operation Santa Claus becomes a bonding experience for both urban and rural Alaska."
After a hot Christmas dinner, lifelong Kivalina resident Larry Adams expressed his thanks to the men and women of the Alaska Guard.
"It's absolutely great what the Guard is doing, and the kids just love this," Adams said. "I wish they would do this more often. We would love to see the Guard here again -- only we don't want to wait until next winter. Come see us again this summer."
The Guard also sponsored visits to other rural Alaskan communities, including Ruby, Newtok, Stebbins, Teller, Brevig Mission and Chalkyitsik. A visit to Metlakatla also is planned.
(Army Spc. Paizley Ramsey serves with the Alaska National Guard.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - Children from rural Alaskan communities were treated to an early Christmas this year, thanks to the Alaska National Guard's "Operation Santa Claus." The community relations and support program provides toys, books and school supplies for young people in communities across the state.
The 50-year tradition continued this week in Kivalina, a city in Alaska's Northwest Arctic borough. More than 100 students from McQueen School received books, presents, a holiday meal and a new Operation Santa Claus feature, photos with Santa, on Dec. 6.
"This is so much fun, and the presents are really cool," Jasmine Adams, 14, said.
Fellow student Warren Hawley, 13, agreed. "This is the best, better than anything," he said. "This doesn't happen very much, and we want you guys to come back."
Residents also enjoyed a surprise visit from Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin.
"It's wonderful to be here in Kivalina to celebrate the holidays and to be able to do this for the children of the community," said Palin, who was accompanied by her daughter Piper. "It's good to be able to show our support for the National Guard and to show the people of Alaska what our Guard is up to."
Several military guests were on hand, including Air Force Gen. Carrol H. Chandler, Pacific Air Forces commander; Air Force Lt. Gen. Craig E. Campbell, Alaska's adjutant general; Air Force Lt. Gen. Dana T. Atkins, Alaskan Command commander; and Army Brig. Gen. Thomas H. Katkus, Alaska Army National Guard commander.
"The greatest thing about Operation Santa Claus is that we get to share our gifts, and the people of the communities get to share their culture," Campbell said. "Operation Santa Claus becomes a bonding experience for both urban and rural Alaska."
After a hot Christmas dinner, lifelong Kivalina resident Larry Adams expressed his thanks to the men and women of the Alaska Guard.
"It's absolutely great what the Guard is doing, and the kids just love this," Adams said. "I wish they would do this more often. We would love to see the Guard here again -- only we don't want to wait until next winter. Come see us again this summer."
The Guard also sponsored visits to other rural Alaskan communities, including Ruby, Newtok, Stebbins, Teller, Brevig Mission and Chalkyitsik. A visit to Metlakatla also is planned.
(Army Spc. Paizley Ramsey serves with the Alaska National Guard.)
Gates Plans to Reaffirm U.S. Commitment to Region at Bahrain Conference
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - Providing reassurances that countries in the region and other allies can continue to count on the United States and fostering U.S. relationships in the Persian Gulf region are among the goals Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates hopes to achieve at the multinational Manama Dialogue conference here. Gates landed here late last night to attend today's opening of the annual conference, at which he said he also hopes to expand U.S. efforts in multilateral air and maritime surveillance capabilities and defensive capabilities in the region.
Speaking to reporters during the flight here, Gates said he believes those gathered at the conference will be focused on the direction the United States will take after President-elect Barack Obama takes office next month.
"I think they will be looking for reassurance of ... continuity in U.S. attention to the region and our bilateral and multilateral relationships," he said. His message will convey that continuity, he added, and will reinforce that Persian Gulf countries can count on the United States to remain actively engaged in the region.
The secretary began meeting this morning with senior U.S. and foreign military leaders in the region. He will speak at tomorrow's first session, followed by an opportunity for questions from those attending the dialogue.
This year's Manama Dialogue is the fifth annual such meeting of leaders from more than 25 countries, including those from the Persian Gulf, the Middle East, NATO and the European Union. Hosted by the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies, the meetings serve as a forum on national and regional security issues and initiatives.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - Providing reassurances that countries in the region and other allies can continue to count on the United States and fostering U.S. relationships in the Persian Gulf region are among the goals Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates hopes to achieve at the multinational Manama Dialogue conference here. Gates landed here late last night to attend today's opening of the annual conference, at which he said he also hopes to expand U.S. efforts in multilateral air and maritime surveillance capabilities and defensive capabilities in the region.
Speaking to reporters during the flight here, Gates said he believes those gathered at the conference will be focused on the direction the United States will take after President-elect Barack Obama takes office next month.
"I think they will be looking for reassurance of ... continuity in U.S. attention to the region and our bilateral and multilateral relationships," he said. His message will convey that continuity, he added, and will reinforce that Persian Gulf countries can count on the United States to remain actively engaged in the region.
The secretary began meeting this morning with senior U.S. and foreign military leaders in the region. He will speak at tomorrow's first session, followed by an opportunity for questions from those attending the dialogue.
This year's Manama Dialogue is the fifth annual such meeting of leaders from more than 25 countries, including those from the Persian Gulf, the Middle East, NATO and the European Union. Hosted by the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies, the meetings serve as a forum on national and regional security issues and initiatives.
Defense Department Reinforces Importance of Accurate Communication
By Army Staff Sgt. Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - In a recent letter to combatant commanders and public affairs officials throughout the Defense Department, the department's top public affairs official stressed the importance of credible communication and reinforced the department's policy on altering images. "Release of accurate and timely information to the public is a commander's responsibility and impacts military operations by helping the public and Congress understand defense strategy, defense policy and national security issues," Robert T. Hastings, the principal deputy assistant defense secretary for public affairs, said in the letter.
The policy reminder was sparked by recent controversy over a digitally altered photo of Army Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody, who became the U.S. military's first female four-star general during a Pentagon ceremony Nov. 14.
The photograph was distributed by the Army and ran on the Associated Press photo wire Nov. 13, but was pulled when a news service photography director in San Antonio noticed changes.
The altered image showed Dunwoody posing in front of an American flag and wearing her uniform, which had four stars on each side of her collar. The original image is of Dunwoody with three stars on her collar, sitting behind a desk in front of a bookshelf.
As a result, the AP banned the use of all Defense Department images on its service.
Army officials said the image did not misrepresent or change facts, therefore, did not violate any policy. Officials do not know where the photo was released from, but believe it did not come from an Army public affairs or visual information office.
However, Hastings stressed that the issue is not limited to public affairs or visual information communities, because of the "widespread use of digital cameras and image-editing software."
In the letter, he said any servicemember can "easily manipulate photos for what may seem to be harmless purposes. Such alterations can and do have wide-ranging negative consequences, because they change the factual content captured by the camera and call into question the truthfulness of other [Defense Department] imagery," he explained.
Hastings referenced the department's policy that prohibits image alterations, citing that any modification that weakens or questions the credibility of official defense imagery -- within or outside the department -- is prohibited.
The AP lifted its ban Nov. 21.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - In a recent letter to combatant commanders and public affairs officials throughout the Defense Department, the department's top public affairs official stressed the importance of credible communication and reinforced the department's policy on altering images. "Release of accurate and timely information to the public is a commander's responsibility and impacts military operations by helping the public and Congress understand defense strategy, defense policy and national security issues," Robert T. Hastings, the principal deputy assistant defense secretary for public affairs, said in the letter.
The policy reminder was sparked by recent controversy over a digitally altered photo of Army Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody, who became the U.S. military's first female four-star general during a Pentagon ceremony Nov. 14.
The photograph was distributed by the Army and ran on the Associated Press photo wire Nov. 13, but was pulled when a news service photography director in San Antonio noticed changes.
The altered image showed Dunwoody posing in front of an American flag and wearing her uniform, which had four stars on each side of her collar. The original image is of Dunwoody with three stars on her collar, sitting behind a desk in front of a bookshelf.
As a result, the AP banned the use of all Defense Department images on its service.
Army officials said the image did not misrepresent or change facts, therefore, did not violate any policy. Officials do not know where the photo was released from, but believe it did not come from an Army public affairs or visual information office.
However, Hastings stressed that the issue is not limited to public affairs or visual information communities, because of the "widespread use of digital cameras and image-editing software."
In the letter, he said any servicemember can "easily manipulate photos for what may seem to be harmless purposes. Such alterations can and do have wide-ranging negative consequences, because they change the factual content captured by the camera and call into question the truthfulness of other [Defense Department] imagery," he explained.
Hastings referenced the department's policy that prohibits image alterations, citing that any modification that weakens or questions the credibility of official defense imagery -- within or outside the department -- is prohibited.
The AP lifted its ban Nov. 21.
California Guardsmen Train for Kosovo Deployment
By Army Sgt. Sheila Holifield
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - Nearly 100 California National Guardsmen are preparing for a deployment to Kosovo in the spring, where they will serve as the NATO Kosovo Force's quick-reaction force. Members of the 1-185th Combined Arms Battalion from Bakersfield, Calif., arrived here to train with their M2 Bradley fighting vehicle.
"Over 50 percent of our soldiers have prior deployment experience to a combat zone doing this type of mission, so we know what to expect," Army Capt. Michael Riley, commander of Company A, 1-185th CAB, said.
Riley said the soldiers can draw from their prior deployment experiences when interacting with the local population.
"We understand cultural sensitivity, and no matter where you are being deployed to, that is important," Riley said.
Although the unit's soldiers are not new to the deployed environment, Riley said, this particular mission will be challenging in its own way.
"Our focus is to help our soldiers understand current battlefield parameters and adhering to their current standards," Riley said. "It's not easy for an infantry soldier to transition out of that mode and into a more 'friendly' role, and still be able to transition right back to being an infantryman."
Upon their arrival here in late November, the soldiers focused on Bradley gunnery training.
"It's just like qualifying with an individual weapon, but we also have to qualify as a crew," Riley said.
Riley said 100 percent of his soldiers qualified.
In mid-December, the 1-185th CAB will travel to Camp Atterbury, Ind., where they will continue their mobilization training for the Kosovo deployment.
(Army Sgt. Sheila Holifield serves in the 177th Armored Brigade public affairs office.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - Nearly 100 California National Guardsmen are preparing for a deployment to Kosovo in the spring, where they will serve as the NATO Kosovo Force's quick-reaction force. Members of the 1-185th Combined Arms Battalion from Bakersfield, Calif., arrived here to train with their M2 Bradley fighting vehicle.
"Over 50 percent of our soldiers have prior deployment experience to a combat zone doing this type of mission, so we know what to expect," Army Capt. Michael Riley, commander of Company A, 1-185th CAB, said.
Riley said the soldiers can draw from their prior deployment experiences when interacting with the local population.
"We understand cultural sensitivity, and no matter where you are being deployed to, that is important," Riley said.
Although the unit's soldiers are not new to the deployed environment, Riley said, this particular mission will be challenging in its own way.
"Our focus is to help our soldiers understand current battlefield parameters and adhering to their current standards," Riley said. "It's not easy for an infantry soldier to transition out of that mode and into a more 'friendly' role, and still be able to transition right back to being an infantryman."
Upon their arrival here in late November, the soldiers focused on Bradley gunnery training.
"It's just like qualifying with an individual weapon, but we also have to qualify as a crew," Riley said.
Riley said 100 percent of his soldiers qualified.
In mid-December, the 1-185th CAB will travel to Camp Atterbury, Ind., where they will continue their mobilization training for the Kosovo deployment.
(Army Sgt. Sheila Holifield serves in the 177th Armored Brigade public affairs office.)
Report Finds Mismanagement in America Supports You Program
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - The Defense Department Inspector General reports that the America Supports You program was being managed in a "questionable and irregular manner," the department's top public affairs official said today. Robert T. Hastings, principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for public affairs, spoke with reporters in advance of the release of the inspector general's audit.
Dorrance Smith, then-assistant secretary of defense for public affairs, requested the IG audit in May 2007.
Still, Hastings said, America Supports You is a "tremendous initiative" for U.S. servicemembers and their families. As originally conceived, the program aimed to inform servicemembers and their loved ones of what "thousands of individuals, community groups, corporations, businesses and others are doing to support them," he said.
The department already has put in place actions that will return the program to its roots, he said.
There were four key findings in the IG report. The first is that the program morphed over time to include building and soliciting support of the public, from schoolchildren, corporations, celebrities and so on, Hastings said. "So it went from a communications program to soliciting support," he said.
The second finding is that $9.2 million in appropriated funds was transferred to The Stars and Stripes – a military newspaper -- to cover America Supports You program expenses using nonappropriated-fund rules. "Stars and Stripes is a nonappropriated fund activity," Hastings said. "The contracting rules are different."
The third finding is that the office of the assistant secretary of defense for public affairs did not provide adequate oversight for an $8.8 million contract to a public relations firm – Susan Davis International. "The report questions the nature of the contract, the nature of the work that was performed and the competitive process in hiring that agency," Hastings said.
Finally, the report found that a private foundation using the America Supports You name and logo creates confusion and constitutes an implied endorsement. "That confusion led to perceptions of government endorsements of that private fund," he said.
Well before the release of the report, defense officials began to make changes in the way America Supports You was administered. In May, the department let a contract to replace the one that went through Stars and Stripes, Hastings said.
All America Supports You work is now being done by government workers, and the America Supports You Web site has been changed to eliminate any possible confusion between the government effort and the private foundation.
Hastings said the report made good and valid points, and that officials will use it as a model to return the program to its original goals.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 12, 2008 - The Defense Department Inspector General reports that the America Supports You program was being managed in a "questionable and irregular manner," the department's top public affairs official said today. Robert T. Hastings, principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for public affairs, spoke with reporters in advance of the release of the inspector general's audit.
Dorrance Smith, then-assistant secretary of defense for public affairs, requested the IG audit in May 2007.
Still, Hastings said, America Supports You is a "tremendous initiative" for U.S. servicemembers and their families. As originally conceived, the program aimed to inform servicemembers and their loved ones of what "thousands of individuals, community groups, corporations, businesses and others are doing to support them," he said.
The department already has put in place actions that will return the program to its roots, he said.
There were four key findings in the IG report. The first is that the program morphed over time to include building and soliciting support of the public, from schoolchildren, corporations, celebrities and so on, Hastings said. "So it went from a communications program to soliciting support," he said.
The second finding is that $9.2 million in appropriated funds was transferred to The Stars and Stripes – a military newspaper -- to cover America Supports You program expenses using nonappropriated-fund rules. "Stars and Stripes is a nonappropriated fund activity," Hastings said. "The contracting rules are different."
The third finding is that the office of the assistant secretary of defense for public affairs did not provide adequate oversight for an $8.8 million contract to a public relations firm – Susan Davis International. "The report questions the nature of the contract, the nature of the work that was performed and the competitive process in hiring that agency," Hastings said.
Finally, the report found that a private foundation using the America Supports You name and logo creates confusion and constitutes an implied endorsement. "That confusion led to perceptions of government endorsements of that private fund," he said.
Well before the release of the report, defense officials began to make changes in the way America Supports You was administered. In May, the department let a contract to replace the one that went through Stars and Stripes, Hastings said.
All America Supports You work is now being done by government workers, and the America Supports You Web site has been changed to eliminate any possible confusion between the government effort and the private foundation.
Hastings said the report made good and valid points, and that officials will use it as a model to return the program to its original goals.
MILITARY CONTRACTS December 12, 2008
Navy
General Dynamics, National Steel and Shipbuilding Company, San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a $940,378,173 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-02-C-2300) for two construction options (T-AKE 11 and T-AKE 12) which includes design and construction; technical manuals; special studies, analyses, and reviews; engineering and industrial services; and data and two options for Long Lead Time Material for T-AKE 13 and T-AKE 14. T-AKE is a new Combat Logistics Force Underway Replenishment Naval vessel intended to replace the current capability of the Kilauea-Class (T-AE 26) Ammunition Ship, Mars-Class (T-AFS 1) Combat Stores Ships, and when operating in concert with a Henry J. Kaiser-Class (T-AO 187) Oiler ship, the Sacramento-Class (AOE 1) Fast Combat Support Ship. As an auxiliary support ship, T-AKE will directly contribute to the ability of the Navy to maintain a forward presence. Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 2012 for T-AKE 11, Jan. 2013 for T-AKE 12, Dec. 2013 for T-AKE 13 and Nov. 2014 for T-AKE 14. Contract funds will not expireat the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems and Sensors, Manassas, Va., is being awarded a $38,258,994 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-04-C-6207) for engineering services in support of the Acoustic – Rapid Commercial off The Shelf (A-RCI) program. The 550,000 additional engineering services hours will be used to complete the current BSY-2, Wrap Around Antenna (WAA), Va., Class sonar, Integrated Warfare Systems 5A projects/arrays, and TacLAN tasking. Work will be performed in Manassas, Va., (90 percent) and Syracuse, N.Y., (10 percent) and is expected to be completed by June 2009. This contract was not competitively procured. Contract funds will not expire at the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command is the contracting activity.
Electric Boat Corp., Groton, Conn. is being awarded a $16,776,604 cost-plus-fixed-fee material order for the procurement of vendor services to support Electric Boat's redesign effort of the Common Weapons Launcher (CWL), including the engineering support and the Engineering Development Model (EDM) hardware. The Material Order also includes efforts for the continued development of the CWL for use with SSN 784 VPT, development of interface documents, and defining changes to support both interfaces to the Weapon Control and Payload Tube Control Panel. This order is the vehicle by which the Navy plans to fund the Block III Common Weapon Launcher design, and includes the total scope associated with the vendor portion of the inboard electronics design as well as the scope required for in-house (Electric Boat) tasks. Work will be performed in Manassas, Va., and is expected to be completed by 2013. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. Supervisor of Shipbuilding Conversion and Repair, Groton Conn. is the contracting activity (N00024-09-C-2101).
Raytheon Missile Systems, Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $15,633,300 cost-plus-fixed-fee modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-07-C-0008) for Fiscal Year 2009 technical support of AIM-9X missiles for the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz., (90 percent); Eglin, Fla., (5 percent), and China Lake, Calif., (5 percent), and is expected to be completed in Nov. 2009. Contract funds in the amount of $2,052,348 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract combines purchases for the U.S. Navy, ($10,117,800; 65 precent) and the U.S. Air Force, ($5,515,500; 35 percent). The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
Raytheon Missile Systems, Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $15,410,000 cost-plus-fixed-fee modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-07-C-0008) for 12 months of AIM-9X Sidewinder (Block II) Missile Obsolescence Support for the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz., (90 percent) and China Lake, Calif., (10 percent) and is expected to be completed in Nov. 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract combines purchases for the U.S. Navy ($9,043,095; 59 percent) and the U.S. Air Force ($6,366,905; 41 percent). The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems and Sensors (LM MS2), Moorestown, N.J., is being awarded a $15,334,926 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-98-C-5197) for Aegis Cruiser Modernization efforts for the USS Bunker Hill (CG 52). Services include providing the material, equipment, supplies and technical engineering required to define, design, develop, integrate, test and deliver AEGIS baseline computer programs for Aegis Combat System Upgrades, which may be further clarified by written technical instructions. The Contractor shall provide system engineering support to evaluate all problems for their effect on the AEGIS Weapon System, propose solutions to each problem, and identify changes required to all specifications. This particular modification is for the completion of the ongoing availability of the ship. Work will be performed in Moorestown, N.J., and is expected to be completed by Mar. 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.
McDonnell Douglas Corp., St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $12,861,283 cost plus fixed fee delivery order #0007 under previously awarded contract (N00383-07-G-005H) for avionics repair facility support, which provides repair for various F/A-18 aircraft components. This announcement includes purchases for the Governments of Spain, Malaysia, and Kuwait (less than 1 percent each) under the Foreign Military Sale Program. Work will be performed in Lemoore, Calif., (57 percent); Cecil Field, Fla., (40 percent); and Philadelphia, Pa., (3 percent), and work is expected to be completed by Sept. 2009. Contract funds will not expire before the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Inventory Control Point is the contracting activity.
Raytheon Co., Integrated Defense Systems, Portsmouth, R.I., is being awarded an $11,836,390 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-06-C-5422) for the FY09 option requirements of the NATO SEASPARROW Program Office. The FY09 requirements are to provide two CVN 71 MK29 MOD 4 Evolved SEASPARROW Missile (ESSM) ORDALT Kits, four CVN 71 MK73 MOD 3 Solid State Transmitter (SSTX) ORDALT Kits and two LHD Class MK29 MOD 4 ESSM ORDALT Kits. This modification to support the NATO SEASPARROW Program Office (NSPO) is a follow-on effort, which was previously performed under contract N00024-02-C-5421. The NATO SEASPARROW consortium, which includes the United States and 12 other countries, will fund all of the effort under this modification. Work will be performed in Portsmouth, R.I., and is expected to be completed by Oct. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Concurrent Technologies Corp., Johnstown, Pa., is being awarded a $10,000,000 ceiling-priced contract for the design, fabrication, installation, and test of the Navy MH-60S Helicopter Aircrew Carriage Stream, Tow, and Recovery System Trainer (CSTRS-T) to be located at the Naval Station Norfolk, Va. The CSTRS-T will simulate a Navy MH-60S Helicopter with high fidelity interior to conduct CSTRS operations for Helicopter Sea Combat Fleet Replacement Squadrons (FRS) and post-FRS aircrew training. The CSTRS-T will support training for the CSTRS winch operator skill acquisition and refresher training on normal, emergency, and degraded procedures. Work will be performed in Johnston, Pa., and is expected to be completed in December 2011. Contract funds in the amount of $9,191,884 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division, Orlando, Fla., is the contracting activity (N61339-09-C-0009).
Broadmoor, L.L.C., Metairie, La., is being awarded $8,000,000 for firm fixed price task order #0002 under a previously awarded multiple award construction contract (N62467-05-D-0096) for design and construction of Calibration Laboratory at Naval Air Station JRB New Orleans. The work to be performed includes the design, layout, and construction of a new facility housing clean rooms, a calibration laboratory, offices, and warehousing space. Existing laboratory equipment including test benches and collateral equipment will be relocated from the existing calibration laboratory suites to the new facility once completed. The contractor shall provide turnkey operations for all design, labor, supervision, engineering, materials, equipment, tools, parts, supplies and transportation to perform all work described in the request for proposal. Work will be performed in New Orleans, La., and is expected to be completed by Jun. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the fiscal year. Three proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity.
Raytheon Co., Integrated Defense Systems, San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a $7,986,087 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-08-C-5122) to exercise options for Ship Self Defense System (SSDS) FY09 MK 1 Technology Refresh Support Services; FY09 Pre/Post Certification/Life Cycle Maintenance Support Services; FY09 Engineering Change/Field Change Kits, Commercial Off the Shelf Obsolescence Engineering and Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages. In the course of this effort, Raytheon IDS will be responsible for the integration of complex war-fighting improvements – including components associated with the Dual Band Radar (DBR) and Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) Block 2 – into the modular SSDS. Raytheon IDS will integrate, test and provide certification support for the government-furnished equipment/government-furnished information required for the CVN/Amphibious ship combat system. Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif., (90 percent); Tewksbury, Mass., (2.5 percent); Portsmouth, R.I., (2.5 percent); St. Petersburg, Fla., (2.5 percent); and Tucson, Ariz., (2.5 percent), and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Rolls Royce Corp., Indianapolis, Ind., is being awarded a $6,042,666 modification to a previously awarded indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract (N00019-03-D-0002) for the procurement of two AE2100D3 turboprop engines for the U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J aircraft. Work will be performed in Indianapolis, Ind., and is expected to be completed in July 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
LB&B Associates, Inc., Columbia, Md., is being awarded a minimum $18,755,149 firm fixed price contract to support government-owned, contractor operated fuel services. Other locations of performance are Calif., and Texas regions. Using service is Navy. The original proposals were solicited in a full and open competition with four responses. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Dec. 31, 2016. The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support Center (DESC), Fort Belvoir, Va., (Sp0600-09-C-5900).
Agility Defense & Government Services Inc., Alexandria, Va., is being awarded a maximum $55,688,166 firm fixed price, indefinite quantity contract for establishment of total supply chain management, customer direct initiative to support replenishment parts and industrial hardware. Other locations of performance are Pennsylvania and Customer Direct – Worldwide. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. There were originally 5 proposals solicited with 3 responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract has a base period of four years with two, two-year option periods. The date of performance completion is Fiscal Year 2012. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC), Columbus, Ohio (SPM7LX-09-D-9004).
Coastal Pacific Food Distributors, Stockton, Calif.*, is being awarded a maximum $45,000,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for full line food distribution. Other location of performance is Stockton, California. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Mar. 16, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM300-09-D-3280).
Special T. hosiery Mills, Inc., Burlington, N.C.*, is being awarded a maximum $7,092,000 firm fixed price, total set aside contract for Army, antimicrobial socks and boots. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army and Navy. There were originally 25 proposals solicited with 16 responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This action is exercising the fourth option year period. The date of performance completion is Dec. 11, 2009. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa., (SP0100-05-D-0386).
General Electric Transportation Aircraft Engines, Lynn, Mass., is being awarded a maximum $6,376,123 firm fixed price, sole source, requirements type contract for engine parts. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. There was 1 proposal originally solicited with one response. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is for ten years with a two-year base and four two-year options. The date of performance completion is Mar. 31, 2009. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Richmond (DSCR), Richmond, Va., (SPM400-00-D-9403).
Air Force
The Air Force is modifying a time and materials contract to Call Henry, Incorporated, Titusville, Fla., for $9,836,338. This contract action is to exercise Option IV of the basic contract. At this time, $1,540,000 has been obligated. 88 CONS/PKBA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (FA8601-05-D-0002, Modification P00008).
General Dynamics, National Steel and Shipbuilding Company, San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a $940,378,173 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-02-C-2300) for two construction options (T-AKE 11 and T-AKE 12) which includes design and construction; technical manuals; special studies, analyses, and reviews; engineering and industrial services; and data and two options for Long Lead Time Material for T-AKE 13 and T-AKE 14. T-AKE is a new Combat Logistics Force Underway Replenishment Naval vessel intended to replace the current capability of the Kilauea-Class (T-AE 26) Ammunition Ship, Mars-Class (T-AFS 1) Combat Stores Ships, and when operating in concert with a Henry J. Kaiser-Class (T-AO 187) Oiler ship, the Sacramento-Class (AOE 1) Fast Combat Support Ship. As an auxiliary support ship, T-AKE will directly contribute to the ability of the Navy to maintain a forward presence. Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 2012 for T-AKE 11, Jan. 2013 for T-AKE 12, Dec. 2013 for T-AKE 13 and Nov. 2014 for T-AKE 14. Contract funds will not expireat the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems and Sensors, Manassas, Va., is being awarded a $38,258,994 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-04-C-6207) for engineering services in support of the Acoustic – Rapid Commercial off The Shelf (A-RCI) program. The 550,000 additional engineering services hours will be used to complete the current BSY-2, Wrap Around Antenna (WAA), Va., Class sonar, Integrated Warfare Systems 5A projects/arrays, and TacLAN tasking. Work will be performed in Manassas, Va., (90 percent) and Syracuse, N.Y., (10 percent) and is expected to be completed by June 2009. This contract was not competitively procured. Contract funds will not expire at the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command is the contracting activity.
Electric Boat Corp., Groton, Conn. is being awarded a $16,776,604 cost-plus-fixed-fee material order for the procurement of vendor services to support Electric Boat's redesign effort of the Common Weapons Launcher (CWL), including the engineering support and the Engineering Development Model (EDM) hardware. The Material Order also includes efforts for the continued development of the CWL for use with SSN 784 VPT, development of interface documents, and defining changes to support both interfaces to the Weapon Control and Payload Tube Control Panel. This order is the vehicle by which the Navy plans to fund the Block III Common Weapon Launcher design, and includes the total scope associated with the vendor portion of the inboard electronics design as well as the scope required for in-house (Electric Boat) tasks. Work will be performed in Manassas, Va., and is expected to be completed by 2013. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. Supervisor of Shipbuilding Conversion and Repair, Groton Conn. is the contracting activity (N00024-09-C-2101).
Raytheon Missile Systems, Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $15,633,300 cost-plus-fixed-fee modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-07-C-0008) for Fiscal Year 2009 technical support of AIM-9X missiles for the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz., (90 percent); Eglin, Fla., (5 percent), and China Lake, Calif., (5 percent), and is expected to be completed in Nov. 2009. Contract funds in the amount of $2,052,348 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract combines purchases for the U.S. Navy, ($10,117,800; 65 precent) and the U.S. Air Force, ($5,515,500; 35 percent). The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
Raytheon Missile Systems, Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $15,410,000 cost-plus-fixed-fee modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-07-C-0008) for 12 months of AIM-9X Sidewinder (Block II) Missile Obsolescence Support for the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz., (90 percent) and China Lake, Calif., (10 percent) and is expected to be completed in Nov. 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract combines purchases for the U.S. Navy ($9,043,095; 59 percent) and the U.S. Air Force ($6,366,905; 41 percent). The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems and Sensors (LM MS2), Moorestown, N.J., is being awarded a $15,334,926 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-98-C-5197) for Aegis Cruiser Modernization efforts for the USS Bunker Hill (CG 52). Services include providing the material, equipment, supplies and technical engineering required to define, design, develop, integrate, test and deliver AEGIS baseline computer programs for Aegis Combat System Upgrades, which may be further clarified by written technical instructions. The Contractor shall provide system engineering support to evaluate all problems for their effect on the AEGIS Weapon System, propose solutions to each problem, and identify changes required to all specifications. This particular modification is for the completion of the ongoing availability of the ship. Work will be performed in Moorestown, N.J., and is expected to be completed by Mar. 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.
McDonnell Douglas Corp., St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $12,861,283 cost plus fixed fee delivery order #0007 under previously awarded contract (N00383-07-G-005H) for avionics repair facility support, which provides repair for various F/A-18 aircraft components. This announcement includes purchases for the Governments of Spain, Malaysia, and Kuwait (less than 1 percent each) under the Foreign Military Sale Program. Work will be performed in Lemoore, Calif., (57 percent); Cecil Field, Fla., (40 percent); and Philadelphia, Pa., (3 percent), and work is expected to be completed by Sept. 2009. Contract funds will not expire before the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Inventory Control Point is the contracting activity.
Raytheon Co., Integrated Defense Systems, Portsmouth, R.I., is being awarded an $11,836,390 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-06-C-5422) for the FY09 option requirements of the NATO SEASPARROW Program Office. The FY09 requirements are to provide two CVN 71 MK29 MOD 4 Evolved SEASPARROW Missile (ESSM) ORDALT Kits, four CVN 71 MK73 MOD 3 Solid State Transmitter (SSTX) ORDALT Kits and two LHD Class MK29 MOD 4 ESSM ORDALT Kits. This modification to support the NATO SEASPARROW Program Office (NSPO) is a follow-on effort, which was previously performed under contract N00024-02-C-5421. The NATO SEASPARROW consortium, which includes the United States and 12 other countries, will fund all of the effort under this modification. Work will be performed in Portsmouth, R.I., and is expected to be completed by Oct. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Concurrent Technologies Corp., Johnstown, Pa., is being awarded a $10,000,000 ceiling-priced contract for the design, fabrication, installation, and test of the Navy MH-60S Helicopter Aircrew Carriage Stream, Tow, and Recovery System Trainer (CSTRS-T) to be located at the Naval Station Norfolk, Va. The CSTRS-T will simulate a Navy MH-60S Helicopter with high fidelity interior to conduct CSTRS operations for Helicopter Sea Combat Fleet Replacement Squadrons (FRS) and post-FRS aircrew training. The CSTRS-T will support training for the CSTRS winch operator skill acquisition and refresher training on normal, emergency, and degraded procedures. Work will be performed in Johnston, Pa., and is expected to be completed in December 2011. Contract funds in the amount of $9,191,884 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division, Orlando, Fla., is the contracting activity (N61339-09-C-0009).
Broadmoor, L.L.C., Metairie, La., is being awarded $8,000,000 for firm fixed price task order #0002 under a previously awarded multiple award construction contract (N62467-05-D-0096) for design and construction of Calibration Laboratory at Naval Air Station JRB New Orleans. The work to be performed includes the design, layout, and construction of a new facility housing clean rooms, a calibration laboratory, offices, and warehousing space. Existing laboratory equipment including test benches and collateral equipment will be relocated from the existing calibration laboratory suites to the new facility once completed. The contractor shall provide turnkey operations for all design, labor, supervision, engineering, materials, equipment, tools, parts, supplies and transportation to perform all work described in the request for proposal. Work will be performed in New Orleans, La., and is expected to be completed by Jun. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the fiscal year. Three proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity.
Raytheon Co., Integrated Defense Systems, San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a $7,986,087 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-08-C-5122) to exercise options for Ship Self Defense System (SSDS) FY09 MK 1 Technology Refresh Support Services; FY09 Pre/Post Certification/Life Cycle Maintenance Support Services; FY09 Engineering Change/Field Change Kits, Commercial Off the Shelf Obsolescence Engineering and Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages. In the course of this effort, Raytheon IDS will be responsible for the integration of complex war-fighting improvements – including components associated with the Dual Band Radar (DBR) and Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) Block 2 – into the modular SSDS. Raytheon IDS will integrate, test and provide certification support for the government-furnished equipment/government-furnished information required for the CVN/Amphibious ship combat system. Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif., (90 percent); Tewksbury, Mass., (2.5 percent); Portsmouth, R.I., (2.5 percent); St. Petersburg, Fla., (2.5 percent); and Tucson, Ariz., (2.5 percent), and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Rolls Royce Corp., Indianapolis, Ind., is being awarded a $6,042,666 modification to a previously awarded indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract (N00019-03-D-0002) for the procurement of two AE2100D3 turboprop engines for the U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J aircraft. Work will be performed in Indianapolis, Ind., and is expected to be completed in July 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
LB&B Associates, Inc., Columbia, Md., is being awarded a minimum $18,755,149 firm fixed price contract to support government-owned, contractor operated fuel services. Other locations of performance are Calif., and Texas regions. Using service is Navy. The original proposals were solicited in a full and open competition with four responses. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Dec. 31, 2016. The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support Center (DESC), Fort Belvoir, Va., (Sp0600-09-C-5900).
Agility Defense & Government Services Inc., Alexandria, Va., is being awarded a maximum $55,688,166 firm fixed price, indefinite quantity contract for establishment of total supply chain management, customer direct initiative to support replenishment parts and industrial hardware. Other locations of performance are Pennsylvania and Customer Direct – Worldwide. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. There were originally 5 proposals solicited with 3 responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract has a base period of four years with two, two-year option periods. The date of performance completion is Fiscal Year 2012. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC), Columbus, Ohio (SPM7LX-09-D-9004).
Coastal Pacific Food Distributors, Stockton, Calif.*, is being awarded a maximum $45,000,000 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for full line food distribution. Other location of performance is Stockton, California. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Mar. 16, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM300-09-D-3280).
Special T. hosiery Mills, Inc., Burlington, N.C.*, is being awarded a maximum $7,092,000 firm fixed price, total set aside contract for Army, antimicrobial socks and boots. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army and Navy. There were originally 25 proposals solicited with 16 responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This action is exercising the fourth option year period. The date of performance completion is Dec. 11, 2009. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP), Philadelphia, Pa., (SP0100-05-D-0386).
General Electric Transportation Aircraft Engines, Lynn, Mass., is being awarded a maximum $6,376,123 firm fixed price, sole source, requirements type contract for engine parts. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. There was 1 proposal originally solicited with one response. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is for ten years with a two-year base and four two-year options. The date of performance completion is Mar. 31, 2009. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Richmond (DSCR), Richmond, Va., (SPM400-00-D-9403).
Air Force
The Air Force is modifying a time and materials contract to Call Henry, Incorporated, Titusville, Fla., for $9,836,338. This contract action is to exercise Option IV of the basic contract. At this time, $1,540,000 has been obligated. 88 CONS/PKBA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (FA8601-05-D-0002, Modification P00008).
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Combustible Dust: The Threat to First Responders
Editor's Note: Based on the combat and non-combat emergency situations military personnel face, this subject was thought applicable to servicemembers.
On December 19, 2008, Conversations with Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature a discussion with John Astad and Bob LaPlante on preventing and mitigating fire and explosion from combustible dust. According to OSHA, “any combustible material (and some materials normally considered noncombustible) can burn rapidly when in a finely divided form. If such a dust is suspended in air in the right concentration, it can become explosive.
The force from such an explosion can cause employee deaths, injuries, and destruction of entire buildings. Such incidents have killed scores of employees and injured hundreds over the past few decades.” As an example, “In January 2003, devastating fires and explosions destroyed a North Carolina pharmaceutical plant that manufactured rubber drug-delivery components. Six employees were killed and 38 people, including two firefighters, were injured. The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB), an independent Federal agency charged with investigating chemical incidents, issued a final report concluding that an accumulation of a combustible polyethylene dust above the suspended ceilings fueled the explosion. The explosion severely damaged the plant and caused minor damage to nearby businesses, a home, and a school.”
Program Date: December 19, 2008
Program Time: 2100 hours, Pacific
Topic: Combustible Dust: The Threat to First Responders
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2008/12/20/Combustible-Dust-The-Threat-to-First-Responders
About the Guests
John Astad is Director and Research Analyst of the Combustible Dust Policy Institute. At the Institute, John tracks and researches combustible dust related fires and explosions. The results of this business intelligence data can be utilized by a myriad of stakeholders in the public and private sectors in developing cost effective strategies in assessing risk concerning combustible dust hazards in the workplace. John Astad holds a BS Business and Public Administration from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, with a major in Environmental Management.
Bob LaPlante is the General Manager at United Training Specialists (Phoenix, AZ). He has 29 years of power plant experience in Engineering, Fire Protection and Emergency Response Planning. His responsibility have included developing emergency response plans for power generating plants with regards to meeting OSHA, NFPA and DHS regulations and standards; and, developing emergency response power plant training, facility pre-plans, standard operating procedures and fire protection equipment maintenance and training programs for plant Emergency Response Team members. Bob LaPlante is a member of the NFPA, Edison Electric Institute’s Fire Committee, International Association of Fire Chiefs, the Arizona Fire Chiefs Association and the Arizona Fire Training Association.
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, Criminal Justice technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2008/12/20/Combustible-Dust-The-Threat-to-First-Responders
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
On December 19, 2008, Conversations with Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature a discussion with John Astad and Bob LaPlante on preventing and mitigating fire and explosion from combustible dust. According to OSHA, “any combustible material (and some materials normally considered noncombustible) can burn rapidly when in a finely divided form. If such a dust is suspended in air in the right concentration, it can become explosive.
The force from such an explosion can cause employee deaths, injuries, and destruction of entire buildings. Such incidents have killed scores of employees and injured hundreds over the past few decades.” As an example, “In January 2003, devastating fires and explosions destroyed a North Carolina pharmaceutical plant that manufactured rubber drug-delivery components. Six employees were killed and 38 people, including two firefighters, were injured. The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB), an independent Federal agency charged with investigating chemical incidents, issued a final report concluding that an accumulation of a combustible polyethylene dust above the suspended ceilings fueled the explosion. The explosion severely damaged the plant and caused minor damage to nearby businesses, a home, and a school.”
Program Date: December 19, 2008
Program Time: 2100 hours, Pacific
Topic: Combustible Dust: The Threat to First Responders
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2008/12/20/Combustible-Dust-The-Threat-to-First-Responders
About the Guests
John Astad is Director and Research Analyst of the Combustible Dust Policy Institute. At the Institute, John tracks and researches combustible dust related fires and explosions. The results of this business intelligence data can be utilized by a myriad of stakeholders in the public and private sectors in developing cost effective strategies in assessing risk concerning combustible dust hazards in the workplace. John Astad holds a BS Business and Public Administration from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, with a major in Environmental Management.
Bob LaPlante is the General Manager at United Training Specialists (Phoenix, AZ). He has 29 years of power plant experience in Engineering, Fire Protection and Emergency Response Planning. His responsibility have included developing emergency response plans for power generating plants with regards to meeting OSHA, NFPA and DHS regulations and standards; and, developing emergency response power plant training, facility pre-plans, standard operating procedures and fire protection equipment maintenance and training programs for plant Emergency Response Team members. Bob LaPlante is a member of the NFPA, Edison Electric Institute’s Fire Committee, International Association of Fire Chiefs, the Arizona Fire Chiefs Association and the Arizona Fire Training Association.
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, Criminal Justice technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2008/12/20/Combustible-Dust-The-Threat-to-First-Responders
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Four Receive Presidential Citizens Medals for Troop Support Work
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 10, 2008 - Four individuals who have supported America's military, including two retired officers and a television star, were among 23 people who received the Presidential Citizens Medal from President George W. Bush at a White House ceremony today.
The Presidential Citizens Medal was established November 13, 1969, to recognize U.S. citizens who have performed exemplary deeds of service for the nation. It is one of the highest honors the president can confer upon a civilian, second only to the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The White House prepared citations for each recipient:
Retired Army General Wayne A. Downing
Army Gen. Wayne Downing was an American hero who stepped forward to help defend our Nation and uphold the ideals of our founding. He answered history's call with honor, decency, and resolve, and he earned the respect and admiration of a grateful Nation. The United States honors Wayne Downing for his selfless service that continues to inspire us as we work to advance peace and extend freedom around the world.
Arnold Fisher
By devoting his time and talents to his fellow veterans, Arnold Fisher has helped America fulfill its obligations to those who have defended our freedom. His compassion and dedication to our military families reflect the best of the American spirit. The United States honors Arnold Fisher for his service to our country's veterans and their families, and for demonstrating the generous and grateful heart of America.
Gary Sinise
Gary Sinise is a humanitarian and a patriot. Working alongside our military and reaching out a compassionate hand to Iraqi children, he is helping a society once brutalized by a tyrant to rebuild and realize the great blessings of liberty. He has also travelled the world to show America's gratitude to our service members. The United States honors Gary Sinise for his efforts to improve the human condition and his strong commitment to the selfless men and women who devote their lives to military service.
Retired Navy Adm. James D. Watkins
As a decorated military leader and innovative public servant, Navy Adm. James Watkins exemplifies the American ideals of courage, character and ingenuity. He has brought great skill and determination to all of his duties, and demonstrated a patriot's devotion to our country. The United States honors James Watkins for his distinguished and varied public service.
Dec. 10, 2008 - Four individuals who have supported America's military, including two retired officers and a television star, were among 23 people who received the Presidential Citizens Medal from President George W. Bush at a White House ceremony today.
The Presidential Citizens Medal was established November 13, 1969, to recognize U.S. citizens who have performed exemplary deeds of service for the nation. It is one of the highest honors the president can confer upon a civilian, second only to the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The White House prepared citations for each recipient:
Retired Army General Wayne A. Downing
Army Gen. Wayne Downing was an American hero who stepped forward to help defend our Nation and uphold the ideals of our founding. He answered history's call with honor, decency, and resolve, and he earned the respect and admiration of a grateful Nation. The United States honors Wayne Downing for his selfless service that continues to inspire us as we work to advance peace and extend freedom around the world.
Arnold Fisher
By devoting his time and talents to his fellow veterans, Arnold Fisher has helped America fulfill its obligations to those who have defended our freedom. His compassion and dedication to our military families reflect the best of the American spirit. The United States honors Arnold Fisher for his service to our country's veterans and their families, and for demonstrating the generous and grateful heart of America.
Gary Sinise
Gary Sinise is a humanitarian and a patriot. Working alongside our military and reaching out a compassionate hand to Iraqi children, he is helping a society once brutalized by a tyrant to rebuild and realize the great blessings of liberty. He has also travelled the world to show America's gratitude to our service members. The United States honors Gary Sinise for his efforts to improve the human condition and his strong commitment to the selfless men and women who devote their lives to military service.
Retired Navy Adm. James D. Watkins
As a decorated military leader and innovative public servant, Navy Adm. James Watkins exemplifies the American ideals of courage, character and ingenuity. He has brought great skill and determination to all of his duties, and demonstrated a patriot's devotion to our country. The United States honors James Watkins for his distinguished and varied public service.
Shipping Company Delivers Holiday Cheer to Troops
By Sharon Foster
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 11, 2008 - Express delivery company DHL is spreading holiday cheer to troops serving in the Middle East by sending hundreds of Christmas trees, holiday decorations and messages of support. The company, based in Plantation, Fla., hosted its annual Trees for Troops send-off this week at DHL's gateway at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York. Since 2004, DHL has collected and sent thousands of live holiday trees, lights, ornaments, menorahs and letters of support from children and community members to troops serving abroad.
"It was heartwarming to see the local community pull together its resources to deliver hundreds of trees and holiday items to our brave men and women serving in the Middle East," said Cain Moodie, director of Gateway Operations, DHL Express USA. "The veterans groups, children, DHL staff and other community members participating shared a strong desire to support our troops and help them feel connected to home while serving so far away."
This year, DHL teamed up with Dee's Nursery in Oceanside, N.Y., the New York State Veterans of Foreign Wars and other members of the New York metro community to collect Christmas items to be sent to troops.
In addition, "Santa sacks" filled with thousands of holiday cards written by local school children accompanied the shipment. The New York shipment will be consolidated with a second shipment of additional trees and care packages from southern California.
"DHL is pleased to utilize its extensive U.S. and global network to deliver holiday cheer and uplift the spirits of those away from their loved ones this season," said Adrian Watts, managing director of government sales and for DHL Express.
DHL launched its Trees for Troops program four years ago after Jim Adelis, a New York businessman, overheard a woman at Dees Nursery inquiring about how to ship a Christmas tree to her son in Iraq. Adelis, whose son also was stationed in Iraq at the time, was inspired to reach out to DHL and the local community to deliver more than just a single tree.
In November and December 2004, with the help the U.S. Army Reserve's 77th Regional Readiness Command, Dees Nursery and the New York metro community, DHL delivered two shipments of 135 trees and holiday decorations from JFK to troops stationed at Camp Anaconda in Balad, Iraq.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 11, 2008 - Express delivery company DHL is spreading holiday cheer to troops serving in the Middle East by sending hundreds of Christmas trees, holiday decorations and messages of support. The company, based in Plantation, Fla., hosted its annual Trees for Troops send-off this week at DHL's gateway at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York. Since 2004, DHL has collected and sent thousands of live holiday trees, lights, ornaments, menorahs and letters of support from children and community members to troops serving abroad.
"It was heartwarming to see the local community pull together its resources to deliver hundreds of trees and holiday items to our brave men and women serving in the Middle East," said Cain Moodie, director of Gateway Operations, DHL Express USA. "The veterans groups, children, DHL staff and other community members participating shared a strong desire to support our troops and help them feel connected to home while serving so far away."
This year, DHL teamed up with Dee's Nursery in Oceanside, N.Y., the New York State Veterans of Foreign Wars and other members of the New York metro community to collect Christmas items to be sent to troops.
In addition, "Santa sacks" filled with thousands of holiday cards written by local school children accompanied the shipment. The New York shipment will be consolidated with a second shipment of additional trees and care packages from southern California.
"DHL is pleased to utilize its extensive U.S. and global network to deliver holiday cheer and uplift the spirits of those away from their loved ones this season," said Adrian Watts, managing director of government sales and for DHL Express.
DHL launched its Trees for Troops program four years ago after Jim Adelis, a New York businessman, overheard a woman at Dees Nursery inquiring about how to ship a Christmas tree to her son in Iraq. Adelis, whose son also was stationed in Iraq at the time, was inspired to reach out to DHL and the local community to deliver more than just a single tree.
In November and December 2004, with the help the U.S. Army Reserve's 77th Regional Readiness Command, Dees Nursery and the New York metro community, DHL delivered two shipments of 135 trees and holiday decorations from JFK to troops stationed at Camp Anaconda in Balad, Iraq.
Gates Tells Troops 'Sense of Duty' Caused Him to Stay
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 11, 2008 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told several hundred troops here today that a sense of duty caused him to agree to stay on in his current job through the administration change. Gates opened the session at the headquarters for the southern regional command by joking about his recent re-appointment as defense secretary -- which at one time he was looking to avoid.
"I now have a better appreciation of what it's like to be stop-lossed," he joked, referring to a program that allows the Army to retain soldiers in critical specialties beyond expiration of their enlistment.
Gates said the crucial junctures of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and upcoming critical budget decisions at the Pentagon are among the reasons he chose to stay on the job. But, he said, the singular reason came down to a sense of duty.
If hundreds of thousands of young Americans are doing their duty without fail, Gates said, he had no choice but to do otherwise.
"Each of you could have done something easier, safer and probably better paid. But you chose to step forward to wear this country's uniform," Gates said. "You chose to volunteer -- in some cases re-volunteer -- knowing full well that a deployment to a combat theater was the most likely result."
Standing on a stage with a large American flag draped across a backdrop made of olive-drab green parachutes, Gates said that in the past two years he has come to realize that the priorities of his office are to do everything possible to get the troops what they need to succeed and protect themselves on the battlefield.
From practically a standing start, in the past 18 months, the Defense Department has had built and sent 12,000 mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles to the combat theater, and Gates promised several thousand more. Also, the department is working to build and an all-terrain version of the MRAP designed specifically for Afghanistan. And, Gates said, he intends to expand the intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities in the country.
"I promise you we will do whatever else it takes to give you the tools it takes to complete your mission and come home safely," Gates said.
This was thye secretary's first large-scale meeting in Afghanistan. He typically meets with much smaller groups of troops, often without their leaders present, to get an unfiltered view of their needs and concerns. In this session, though, he fielded a handful of questions from the crowd, then posed with every servicemember for a photograph.
The group represented a mix of ranks, services and countries as this command, with about 24,000 troops, has the largest NATO International Security Assistance Force presence of the five regional commands in Afghanistan.
Gates told the servicemembers that talking with the troops has been the highlight of his job.
"Your suggestions have shaped my thinking on everything from day-to-day military operations to enhancing the quality of life for servicemembers and their families," Gates said.
The crowd sat intently listening, wearing a varied mixture of camouflaged uniforms with rifles and pistols draped across their shoulders. Digital cameras flashed constantly.
"The size and scope of your mission is going to see some changes in the coming months," Gates said. "The details are still being worked out, and the final decisions will be made by the next president. But a consensus has emerged that more troops are needed to provide security and train Afghan security forces."
The secretary acknowledged the campaign will not be easy or quick for a country scarred by ethnic fissures, grinding poverty and daunting terrain. But success will not come by military means alone, the secretary said. More infrastructure is needed alongside economic development and governance, he told the troops. Everyone within the NATO alliance will have to step up and do more, he added.
In the end, though, Gates promised success. He said the planning of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States were born here, and that he is convinced that the U.S. military, alongside its allies, will begin the work they started here seven years ago.
"I believe that we can succeed, that we must succeed, and we will succeed," Gates said.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 11, 2008 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told several hundred troops here today that a sense of duty caused him to agree to stay on in his current job through the administration change. Gates opened the session at the headquarters for the southern regional command by joking about his recent re-appointment as defense secretary -- which at one time he was looking to avoid.
"I now have a better appreciation of what it's like to be stop-lossed," he joked, referring to a program that allows the Army to retain soldiers in critical specialties beyond expiration of their enlistment.
Gates said the crucial junctures of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and upcoming critical budget decisions at the Pentagon are among the reasons he chose to stay on the job. But, he said, the singular reason came down to a sense of duty.
If hundreds of thousands of young Americans are doing their duty without fail, Gates said, he had no choice but to do otherwise.
"Each of you could have done something easier, safer and probably better paid. But you chose to step forward to wear this country's uniform," Gates said. "You chose to volunteer -- in some cases re-volunteer -- knowing full well that a deployment to a combat theater was the most likely result."
Standing on a stage with a large American flag draped across a backdrop made of olive-drab green parachutes, Gates said that in the past two years he has come to realize that the priorities of his office are to do everything possible to get the troops what they need to succeed and protect themselves on the battlefield.
From practically a standing start, in the past 18 months, the Defense Department has had built and sent 12,000 mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles to the combat theater, and Gates promised several thousand more. Also, the department is working to build and an all-terrain version of the MRAP designed specifically for Afghanistan. And, Gates said, he intends to expand the intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities in the country.
"I promise you we will do whatever else it takes to give you the tools it takes to complete your mission and come home safely," Gates said.
This was thye secretary's first large-scale meeting in Afghanistan. He typically meets with much smaller groups of troops, often without their leaders present, to get an unfiltered view of their needs and concerns. In this session, though, he fielded a handful of questions from the crowd, then posed with every servicemember for a photograph.
The group represented a mix of ranks, services and countries as this command, with about 24,000 troops, has the largest NATO International Security Assistance Force presence of the five regional commands in Afghanistan.
Gates told the servicemembers that talking with the troops has been the highlight of his job.
"Your suggestions have shaped my thinking on everything from day-to-day military operations to enhancing the quality of life for servicemembers and their families," Gates said.
The crowd sat intently listening, wearing a varied mixture of camouflaged uniforms with rifles and pistols draped across their shoulders. Digital cameras flashed constantly.
"The size and scope of your mission is going to see some changes in the coming months," Gates said. "The details are still being worked out, and the final decisions will be made by the next president. But a consensus has emerged that more troops are needed to provide security and train Afghan security forces."
The secretary acknowledged the campaign will not be easy or quick for a country scarred by ethnic fissures, grinding poverty and daunting terrain. But success will not come by military means alone, the secretary said. More infrastructure is needed alongside economic development and governance, he told the troops. Everyone within the NATO alliance will have to step up and do more, he added.
In the end, though, Gates promised success. He said the planning of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States were born here, and that he is convinced that the U.S. military, alongside its allies, will begin the work they started here seven years ago.
"I believe that we can succeed, that we must succeed, and we will succeed," Gates said.
Face of Defense: Soldier Shares Lessons Learned, Empathy
By Army Spc. Josh LeCappelain
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 11, 2008 - Some servicemembers' careers are defined by a single deployment. For Army Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Matthews, frequent deployments have become a way of life.
Matthews' most recent deployment landed him here, where he now enjoys sharing what he's learned about deployments, as well as some empathy, with others.
"I have a ton of Army experience and deployments under my belt," he said. "It's rewarding to pass my knowledge on to other people."
Matthews is the noncommissioned officer in charge of Multinational Division Center's analysis and control element. This is his eighth overseas deployment in 18 years in the Army, on top of numerous relocations stateside. But, he's not complaining.
"I love my job," he said. "The feeling you get, the sense of accomplishment when returning from a deployment, is unbelievable."
A resident Neversink, N.Y. -- known as the birthplace of American fly fishing -- Matthews enlisted as an engineer after his high school graduation in 1990. Before long, he was headed to basic training and advanced individual training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.
"I did really well at AIT," he said. "I got more comfortable and felt like I had picked the right job."
Following graduation, Matthews was assigned to the 52nd Engineers at Fort Carson, Colo. Arriving at his new home, he found out his unit was deployed to Saudi Arabia. After a brisk month's work of preparation, the young private found himself in the Middle East.
"Being 19, it is hard being so far away from home in a combat zone," he said of his three-month first deployment. "You try to set a rhythm, but it's hard as a private."
Matthews returned to Fort Carson, continuing to learn his job and the ways of the Army. It was during this time that he married his high school sweetheart, Katrina. Together, they forged their way forward and started a family. They have three children: Britney, 16; Jenna, 12; and Trey, 6.
In 1993, the call came again to deploy. This time, Matthews would be going to Somalia, just months after 18 servicemembers were killed there when two UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters were shot down during a humanitarian mission in the East African nation in an incident chronicled in Mark Bowden's book titled "Black Hawk Down" and the motion picture adapted from the book.
By then, Matthews said, he "was a little more comfortable" about deploying. But, he added, "Somalia was my worst deployment. Following the incidents of 'Black Hawk Down,' my family was really frightened. ... Convincing them I was safe was very difficult."
After four months, Matthews returned to the United States. He soon learned he would be traveling again the following year. "We started training to go to Haiti," he recalled, adding that the deployment would be his most enjoyable one.
"We went to the beach and actually built a beach house," he said, and he recalled memories such as playing football in six inches of water and mud. But it wasn't all fun and games -- a tropical storm hit Haiti, causing destruction and chaos.
"We heard about mudslides and people being killed," he said. "It rained for two of three straight days. You couldn't walk anywhere without walking through a foot of water. We were sleeping on top of our cots, on top of all of our [equipment]."
The soldiers worked long and hard, with their mission being changed to humanitarian assistance. For their efforts, they were awarded Humanitarian Service medals.
Following redeployment, Matthews applied for a position in the White House. After countless screening processes, he received his top-secret clearance, only to learn the position had been filled. But, as one door closes, another opens, he said. As a result of his new clearance, he switched his career field to intelligence.
After AIT at Fort Huachuca, Ariz., the Matthews family headed to Fort Belvoir, Va. Following two years there, he headed to Schofield Barracks in Hawaii, with a year-long training stop in Fort Hood, Texas. During this time, Matthews deployed twice to Asia for month-long training exercises in South Korea and Thailand.
Late in 2001, Matthews received orders to Fort Drum, N.Y. It was during his leave in conjunction with his move that the world changed.
"I was en route when 9/11 happened," he said. "I knew my life would never be the same."
Heading to Fort Drum without his family, Matthews received a phone call in his hotel room one night from the 10th Mountain Division intelligence sergeant major, who asked if he was interested in deploying. Needing time to adjust and settle his family into Watertown, N.Y., Matthews declined.
Instead, he was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, where he served with the rear detachment as the unit deployed to the Middle East. After a year and a half, he asked to move up to division headquarters, where he has served ever since.
During his tenure on the 10th Mountain Division intelligence staff, he has twice deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, and now, to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Matthews said he has seen many changes in the Army and quality of life during these overseas tours.
"The comfort of life has greatly increased," he said. "First-time deployers don't really realize how good we have it. I have air conditioning, a television with cable, [and] everyone seems to have laptops now. Before, you'd be in your tent, playing cards with your buddies or writing letters home. Now, we have e-mail and instant messenger. ... It's much easier to stay in touch with home."
With 18 years in uniform, Matthews said, his time in the Army is winding down. But, he still has dreams and aspirations before he calls it a career, such as serving as a first sergeant.
"I think that's an achievable goal," he said. "I'd also like to stay at [Fort] Drum. It is only four hours away from my family."
Matthews credits his wife with the success of his overseas deployments.
"My wife has been great," he said. "Being deployed as much as I've been, you need a strong family relationship. I miss her every single day."
In his spare time here, he has a few activities he uses to unwind, including watching numerous movies and challenging his body.
"I do a lot of running events," Matthews said. "The Army 10-miler was pretty important to me. I ran it while deployed to Afghanistan and again here. I use physical training a lot – especially running – as a stress release. When I'm running, I think about home a lot – about my family."
Professionally, Matthews said, he considers his work in helping manage the day-to-day lives of more than 100 soldiers in the ACE as of the utmost importance.
"There are a lot of people to take care of, a lot of soldier issues to address," he said. "I kind of embrace it. Some people don't like doing administrative work – I like taking care of soldiers. I take care of a lot of problems. When a soldier is upset, you try to relate."
(Spc. Josh LeCappelain serves in the Multinational Division Center public affairs office.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 11, 2008 - Some servicemembers' careers are defined by a single deployment. For Army Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Matthews, frequent deployments have become a way of life.
Matthews' most recent deployment landed him here, where he now enjoys sharing what he's learned about deployments, as well as some empathy, with others.
"I have a ton of Army experience and deployments under my belt," he said. "It's rewarding to pass my knowledge on to other people."
Matthews is the noncommissioned officer in charge of Multinational Division Center's analysis and control element. This is his eighth overseas deployment in 18 years in the Army, on top of numerous relocations stateside. But, he's not complaining.
"I love my job," he said. "The feeling you get, the sense of accomplishment when returning from a deployment, is unbelievable."
A resident Neversink, N.Y. -- known as the birthplace of American fly fishing -- Matthews enlisted as an engineer after his high school graduation in 1990. Before long, he was headed to basic training and advanced individual training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.
"I did really well at AIT," he said. "I got more comfortable and felt like I had picked the right job."
Following graduation, Matthews was assigned to the 52nd Engineers at Fort Carson, Colo. Arriving at his new home, he found out his unit was deployed to Saudi Arabia. After a brisk month's work of preparation, the young private found himself in the Middle East.
"Being 19, it is hard being so far away from home in a combat zone," he said of his three-month first deployment. "You try to set a rhythm, but it's hard as a private."
Matthews returned to Fort Carson, continuing to learn his job and the ways of the Army. It was during this time that he married his high school sweetheart, Katrina. Together, they forged their way forward and started a family. They have three children: Britney, 16; Jenna, 12; and Trey, 6.
In 1993, the call came again to deploy. This time, Matthews would be going to Somalia, just months after 18 servicemembers were killed there when two UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters were shot down during a humanitarian mission in the East African nation in an incident chronicled in Mark Bowden's book titled "Black Hawk Down" and the motion picture adapted from the book.
By then, Matthews said, he "was a little more comfortable" about deploying. But, he added, "Somalia was my worst deployment. Following the incidents of 'Black Hawk Down,' my family was really frightened. ... Convincing them I was safe was very difficult."
After four months, Matthews returned to the United States. He soon learned he would be traveling again the following year. "We started training to go to Haiti," he recalled, adding that the deployment would be his most enjoyable one.
"We went to the beach and actually built a beach house," he said, and he recalled memories such as playing football in six inches of water and mud. But it wasn't all fun and games -- a tropical storm hit Haiti, causing destruction and chaos.
"We heard about mudslides and people being killed," he said. "It rained for two of three straight days. You couldn't walk anywhere without walking through a foot of water. We were sleeping on top of our cots, on top of all of our [equipment]."
The soldiers worked long and hard, with their mission being changed to humanitarian assistance. For their efforts, they were awarded Humanitarian Service medals.
Following redeployment, Matthews applied for a position in the White House. After countless screening processes, he received his top-secret clearance, only to learn the position had been filled. But, as one door closes, another opens, he said. As a result of his new clearance, he switched his career field to intelligence.
After AIT at Fort Huachuca, Ariz., the Matthews family headed to Fort Belvoir, Va. Following two years there, he headed to Schofield Barracks in Hawaii, with a year-long training stop in Fort Hood, Texas. During this time, Matthews deployed twice to Asia for month-long training exercises in South Korea and Thailand.
Late in 2001, Matthews received orders to Fort Drum, N.Y. It was during his leave in conjunction with his move that the world changed.
"I was en route when 9/11 happened," he said. "I knew my life would never be the same."
Heading to Fort Drum without his family, Matthews received a phone call in his hotel room one night from the 10th Mountain Division intelligence sergeant major, who asked if he was interested in deploying. Needing time to adjust and settle his family into Watertown, N.Y., Matthews declined.
Instead, he was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, where he served with the rear detachment as the unit deployed to the Middle East. After a year and a half, he asked to move up to division headquarters, where he has served ever since.
During his tenure on the 10th Mountain Division intelligence staff, he has twice deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, and now, to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Matthews said he has seen many changes in the Army and quality of life during these overseas tours.
"The comfort of life has greatly increased," he said. "First-time deployers don't really realize how good we have it. I have air conditioning, a television with cable, [and] everyone seems to have laptops now. Before, you'd be in your tent, playing cards with your buddies or writing letters home. Now, we have e-mail and instant messenger. ... It's much easier to stay in touch with home."
With 18 years in uniform, Matthews said, his time in the Army is winding down. But, he still has dreams and aspirations before he calls it a career, such as serving as a first sergeant.
"I think that's an achievable goal," he said. "I'd also like to stay at [Fort] Drum. It is only four hours away from my family."
Matthews credits his wife with the success of his overseas deployments.
"My wife has been great," he said. "Being deployed as much as I've been, you need a strong family relationship. I miss her every single day."
In his spare time here, he has a few activities he uses to unwind, including watching numerous movies and challenging his body.
"I do a lot of running events," Matthews said. "The Army 10-miler was pretty important to me. I ran it while deployed to Afghanistan and again here. I use physical training a lot – especially running – as a stress release. When I'm running, I think about home a lot – about my family."
Professionally, Matthews said, he considers his work in helping manage the day-to-day lives of more than 100 soldiers in the ACE as of the utmost importance.
"There are a lot of people to take care of, a lot of soldier issues to address," he said. "I kind of embrace it. Some people don't like doing administrative work – I like taking care of soldiers. I take care of a lot of problems. When a soldier is upset, you try to relate."
(Spc. Josh LeCappelain serves in the Multinational Division Center public affairs office.)
Arizona Aims to End Scams, Predatory Lending to Troops, Veterans
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 11, 2008 - Financial scams and predatory lending against servicemembers and veterans is so common that the Arizona attorney general has created an advisory board to stop it. "We got so many complaints that were related to either veterans or active-duty military on our consumer line that I felt it was necessary to set up this coordinating council," Terry Goddard said. "It's been very, very rewarding already and its only had one meeting."
Goddard, a retired Navy Reserve commander and Arizona's attorney general for the last six years, said he was sure some of the complaints his office receives were being covered by other entities. But it became clear that wasn't the case, he said.
To address the steady flow of similar complaints, including pay-day lending issues, mortgage and housing problems and other consumer scams, Goddard created the Attorney General's military and Veterans Advisory Council.
The council's first meeting on Nov. 12 included representatives from veterans groups and the military and resulted in an "explosion of additional ideas," Goddard said, adding that his office had been unaware of a problem with questionable charitable solicitations.
The problem occurs when charities solicit money from the general public on the premise of supporting troops and veterans. Some are legitimate and put the money to good use. Others, however, flirt with breaking the law because very little of the funds collected are used for the stated purpose.
"Although we've been working in that area, we were not aware how much of that directly applies to veterans and [servicemembers]," he said. "Something we're doing through our military and Veterans Council is to make sure that we get the word out about those charities that really aren't producing much benefit for the troops.
"I think it's important that the contributors know," he added.
The council also is ready to tackle the problem of foreclosure rescue schemes targeting servicemembers and veterans who find themselves facing foreclosure. The "rescuers" often grab the title to the house rather than actually fulfilling their promise to help to save it, Goddard said.
Payday loans, something regulated by both the federal and Arizona governments, are another problem the council is looking into. The loans typically carry exorbitant interest rates and can land military families or veterans in debt quickly.
"The protections are good, and they help establish a new standard of what would be expected from a short-term, small-dollar lender, but it apparently didn't solve the problem," Goddard said. "What we found is veterans are still vulnerable, [as are] families.
"They're really scurrilous schemes, and we're real concerned about them, and they seem to particularly target the military and the areas around bases," he added.
While the first meeting and the members' initial reactions were positive, Goddard said, he's not ready to market his ideas to his counterparts in other states just yet.
"I'm taking the cue ... from the veterans groups and the active-duty military," he said. "If their feedback after a couple of meetings is that this is working and this is of value, then I plan to go on the road and tell the National Association of Attorneys General that it's something that they really ought to try and duplicate."
More information on the council and consumer scams targeting veterans and servicemembers is available on the Arizona attorney general's Web site.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 11, 2008 - Financial scams and predatory lending against servicemembers and veterans is so common that the Arizona attorney general has created an advisory board to stop it. "We got so many complaints that were related to either veterans or active-duty military on our consumer line that I felt it was necessary to set up this coordinating council," Terry Goddard said. "It's been very, very rewarding already and its only had one meeting."
Goddard, a retired Navy Reserve commander and Arizona's attorney general for the last six years, said he was sure some of the complaints his office receives were being covered by other entities. But it became clear that wasn't the case, he said.
To address the steady flow of similar complaints, including pay-day lending issues, mortgage and housing problems and other consumer scams, Goddard created the Attorney General's military and Veterans Advisory Council.
The council's first meeting on Nov. 12 included representatives from veterans groups and the military and resulted in an "explosion of additional ideas," Goddard said, adding that his office had been unaware of a problem with questionable charitable solicitations.
The problem occurs when charities solicit money from the general public on the premise of supporting troops and veterans. Some are legitimate and put the money to good use. Others, however, flirt with breaking the law because very little of the funds collected are used for the stated purpose.
"Although we've been working in that area, we were not aware how much of that directly applies to veterans and [servicemembers]," he said. "Something we're doing through our military and Veterans Council is to make sure that we get the word out about those charities that really aren't producing much benefit for the troops.
"I think it's important that the contributors know," he added.
The council also is ready to tackle the problem of foreclosure rescue schemes targeting servicemembers and veterans who find themselves facing foreclosure. The "rescuers" often grab the title to the house rather than actually fulfilling their promise to help to save it, Goddard said.
Payday loans, something regulated by both the federal and Arizona governments, are another problem the council is looking into. The loans typically carry exorbitant interest rates and can land military families or veterans in debt quickly.
"The protections are good, and they help establish a new standard of what would be expected from a short-term, small-dollar lender, but it apparently didn't solve the problem," Goddard said. "What we found is veterans are still vulnerable, [as are] families.
"They're really scurrilous schemes, and we're real concerned about them, and they seem to particularly target the military and the areas around bases," he added.
While the first meeting and the members' initial reactions were positive, Goddard said, he's not ready to market his ideas to his counterparts in other states just yet.
"I'm taking the cue ... from the veterans groups and the active-duty military," he said. "If their feedback after a couple of meetings is that this is working and this is of value, then I plan to go on the road and tell the National Association of Attorneys General that it's something that they really ought to try and duplicate."
More information on the council and consumer scams targeting veterans and servicemembers is available on the Arizona attorney general's Web site.
Official Responds to Congressional Findings on Military Linguistics
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 11, 2008 - A congressional assessment of how the Pentagon is implementing its language strategy reflects the Defense Department's progress and shortfalls, a Pentagon official said yesterday. "I think the House Armed Services Committee report accurately reflects the progress that we've made," said Gail McGinn, deputy undersecretary of defense for plans. "It also talked about some of the things that we haven't quite accomplished yet, which we knew."
The report, released last month, acknowledges that the department and the services are taking additional action to complement the 90-percent completed tasks it outlined in a language plan launched four years ago. Known as the Defense Language Transformation Roadmap, the broad strategy aims to address national shortfalls in foreign language skills in the United States.
But one of the report's findings is that "inconsistencies" exist in the way the department and the services are approaching language transformation.
The report recommends that the dpartment should clarify its policy characterizing foreign language, regional expertise, and cultural awareness as critical or core competencies essential to its missions as a way to establish greater consistency.
McGinn said the services' leaders understand the importance of foreign languages, but that the demands of language training – an Arabic course lasts 63 weeks, for example – places difficulty on a force with finite manning.
"When you talk about wanting to get more language capability in your officer corps, it's hard to conceive of that in an officer's career," she said in an interview at the Pentagon yesterday.
To mitigate this, the department has begun focusing on pre-accession education, meaning academics undertaken before becoming a military servicemember, she said. The idea is that troops would enter the force having completed previous language training.
As part of this transformation, all three service academies now feature more robust strategic language and cultural program offerings. As a result, more cadets and midshipmen are studying languages of strategic importance. ROTC programs also reap the benefits, with students enjoying a wider array of destinations for study abroad.
Beyond pure language know-how, McGinn said, the military hopes to instill cultural and regional expertise in servicemembers, which often require less labor-intensive instruction and time than language training.
"There's an issue of striking the right balance: we need cultural understanding, we need regional expertise and we need foreign language," she said. "We need to figure out how to fit all of that into the force, and that is still a work in progress."
To ensure that the language transformation occurs smoothly and successfully, the department has appointed senior language authorities in each of the military services and agencies to conduct oversight, execution and planning. McGinn said she meets regularly with these representatives to best determine how to steer policy.
"We want them to know what is needed, what capability already exists, and they also help me formulate policies and programs," she said of senior language authorities.
Anther measure of transformational progress is the department's establishment of centers of excellence in each military service to oversee and standardize training and impart essential and mission-targeted cultural training.
Pentagon officials also increased the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center's funding from a fiscal 2001 budget of $77 million to $270 million this fiscal year. DLIFLC, located in Monterey, Calif., is the department's premiere language and cultural training center.
McGinn said the overall goals are three-fold: more foundational and strategic language expertise in the force, the ability to obtain expertise in a language if needed at short notice, and to develop a cadre of linguists with higher-level language skills.
The upshot of foreign language and cultural expertise is that it helps U.S. servicemembers communicate, negotiate and set goals with foreign partners. It also helps troops avoid pitfalls that often surround language barriers.
In American military lingo, for example, the term "field of fire" refers to area in which a person can be engaged by weaponry. "Someone in another culture might see that as a burning wheat field," McGinn pointed out. "And that's not what you mean at all when you said those words."
The maxim "know a language and understand what someone says, but know a culture and understand what someone means" rings true in this example. Unfortunately, U.S. education does not greatly emphasize the study of foreign language and culture, the report notes.
"One problem pointed out in the report is that the American educational system really isn't where we would hope it would be in terms of producing high school grads with foreign language ability," McGinn said. "We are not robust in strategic languages like Arabic and Chinese."
As the committee report states, "The military's lack of language skills and cultural expertise is a symptom of the larger problem facing the nation as a whole."
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 11, 2008 - A congressional assessment of how the Pentagon is implementing its language strategy reflects the Defense Department's progress and shortfalls, a Pentagon official said yesterday. "I think the House Armed Services Committee report accurately reflects the progress that we've made," said Gail McGinn, deputy undersecretary of defense for plans. "It also talked about some of the things that we haven't quite accomplished yet, which we knew."
The report, released last month, acknowledges that the department and the services are taking additional action to complement the 90-percent completed tasks it outlined in a language plan launched four years ago. Known as the Defense Language Transformation Roadmap, the broad strategy aims to address national shortfalls in foreign language skills in the United States.
But one of the report's findings is that "inconsistencies" exist in the way the department and the services are approaching language transformation.
The report recommends that the dpartment should clarify its policy characterizing foreign language, regional expertise, and cultural awareness as critical or core competencies essential to its missions as a way to establish greater consistency.
McGinn said the services' leaders understand the importance of foreign languages, but that the demands of language training – an Arabic course lasts 63 weeks, for example – places difficulty on a force with finite manning.
"When you talk about wanting to get more language capability in your officer corps, it's hard to conceive of that in an officer's career," she said in an interview at the Pentagon yesterday.
To mitigate this, the department has begun focusing on pre-accession education, meaning academics undertaken before becoming a military servicemember, she said. The idea is that troops would enter the force having completed previous language training.
As part of this transformation, all three service academies now feature more robust strategic language and cultural program offerings. As a result, more cadets and midshipmen are studying languages of strategic importance. ROTC programs also reap the benefits, with students enjoying a wider array of destinations for study abroad.
Beyond pure language know-how, McGinn said, the military hopes to instill cultural and regional expertise in servicemembers, which often require less labor-intensive instruction and time than language training.
"There's an issue of striking the right balance: we need cultural understanding, we need regional expertise and we need foreign language," she said. "We need to figure out how to fit all of that into the force, and that is still a work in progress."
To ensure that the language transformation occurs smoothly and successfully, the department has appointed senior language authorities in each of the military services and agencies to conduct oversight, execution and planning. McGinn said she meets regularly with these representatives to best determine how to steer policy.
"We want them to know what is needed, what capability already exists, and they also help me formulate policies and programs," she said of senior language authorities.
Anther measure of transformational progress is the department's establishment of centers of excellence in each military service to oversee and standardize training and impart essential and mission-targeted cultural training.
Pentagon officials also increased the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center's funding from a fiscal 2001 budget of $77 million to $270 million this fiscal year. DLIFLC, located in Monterey, Calif., is the department's premiere language and cultural training center.
McGinn said the overall goals are three-fold: more foundational and strategic language expertise in the force, the ability to obtain expertise in a language if needed at short notice, and to develop a cadre of linguists with higher-level language skills.
The upshot of foreign language and cultural expertise is that it helps U.S. servicemembers communicate, negotiate and set goals with foreign partners. It also helps troops avoid pitfalls that often surround language barriers.
In American military lingo, for example, the term "field of fire" refers to area in which a person can be engaged by weaponry. "Someone in another culture might see that as a burning wheat field," McGinn pointed out. "And that's not what you mean at all when you said those words."
The maxim "know a language and understand what someone says, but know a culture and understand what someone means" rings true in this example. Unfortunately, U.S. education does not greatly emphasize the study of foreign language and culture, the report notes.
"One problem pointed out in the report is that the American educational system really isn't where we would hope it would be in terms of producing high school grads with foreign language ability," McGinn said. "We are not robust in strategic languages like Arabic and Chinese."
As the committee report states, "The military's lack of language skills and cultural expertise is a symptom of the larger problem facing the nation as a whole."
MILITARY CONTRACTS December 11, 2008
NAVY
DZSP 21 LLC, Philadelphia, Pa., is being awarded a $72,675,388 modification to a previously awarded cost plus award fee contract (N62742-05-C-3501) to exercise the fourth option period for Base Operations Support (BOS) services in the Territory of Guam for the Commander, Naval Forces Marianas. The BOS services to be performed include, but are not limited to, general management and administration services; command and staff (public affairs office); public safety (safety and contingency); port operations; ordnance; galley; facilities management; sustainment, restoration/modernization; facilities services; utilities (potable water, wastewater, electrical, and steam); base support vehicles and equipment; and environmental. The current total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $285,376,847. Work will be performed at various installations in the U.S. Territory of Guam, and work for this option is expected to be Dec. 31, 2009. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command Marianas, Naval Base, Guam is the contracting activity.
ITT Electronic Systems, Clifton, N. J., is being awarded a $32,093,118 modification to a previously awarded firm fixed price contract (N00019-05-C-0054) to exercise an option for the procurement of 12 AN/ALQ-214 On-Board Jammer Systems and 41 spare ALQ-214 Weapon Replacement Assembly units for the F/A-18E/F Aircraft. Work will be performed at various locations throughout the United States (43.5 percent); Clifton, N.J., (34.4 percent); East Syracuse, N.Y., (8.8 percent); San Diego, Calif., (8.3 percent); and Rancho Cordova, Calif., (5 percent), and is expected to be completed in Dec. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
Kollmorgen Elecro-Optical Corp., Northampton, Mass., is being awarded a $9,313,962 indefinite delivery indefinite quantity, cost plus fixed fee contract for field services, repair and support services for the AN/BVS-1 and the Photonics Mast Variant (PMV) Photonics Imaging System. Tasking will include initial equipment installation and subsequent repair and maintenance that is required during submarine new construction. The tasking will also included post-construction repairs, maintenance and equipment removal and post construction installations. Work will be performed in Groton, Conn., (70 percent) and Northampton, Mass., (30 percent), and is expected to be completed by Dec. 2013. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured with one offer received via Federal Business Opportunities and on the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Newport, contracts web site. The Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Newport is the contracting activity (N66604-09-D-0058).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Turbo Combustor Technology, Inc., Stuart, Fla.*, is being awarded a maximum $12,195,000 firm fixed price, total set aside, indefinite quantity contract for F-15 afterburner flameholders. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Air Force. Proposals were originally solicited through DIBBS with two responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Dec. 18, 2009. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Richmond, Richmond, Va.,
(SPM4A7-09-D-0014).
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., Stratford, Conn., is being awarded a maximum $9,551,784 firm fixed price, undefinitized contractual action, contract for main rotor blades manufacture components. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Navy. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was originally a sole source competition. The date of performance completion is Aug. 31, 2011. The contracting activity is the DLR Procurement Operations (DSCR-ZC), DLA Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa.,
(N00383-06-G-006F-TH01).
ARMY
Smiths Detection, Inc, Edgewood, Md., was awarded on Dec 9, 2008 a, $65,498,978 commercial firm fixed price contract for Joint Chemical Detector. Work will be performed in Edgewood, Md., with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2010. One bid was solicited and one bid was received. US Army RDECOM Acquisition Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground Contracting Division, Edgewood Division, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W911SR-07-C-0054).
Booz, Allen, Hamilton, Inc, McLean, Va., was awarded on Dec. 9, 2008, a $33,700,000 cost plus fixed fee price contract. This contract is in support of Foreign Military Sales Requirement for Saudi Arabia under Case No. SR-B-VTC for Sword Project Management Office Augmentation Support. Work will be performed in Saudi Arabia, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2011. One bid was solicited and one bid was received. US Army Research, Development, and Engineering Command, Acquisition Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W91CRB-09-C-0023).
Thor Defense Inc, Downers Grove, Ill., was awarded on Dec. 9, 2008 a, $5,746,583 firm fixed price contract for 222,219 Close Quarters Battle Kit Multi Magazine Holders. Work will be performed in Downers Grove, Ill., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 25, 2013. Bids solicited were via the Web and seven bids were received. Army Contracting Command, Joint Munitions & Lethality, Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15QKN-08-D-0027).
DZSP 21 LLC, Philadelphia, Pa., is being awarded a $72,675,388 modification to a previously awarded cost plus award fee contract (N62742-05-C-3501) to exercise the fourth option period for Base Operations Support (BOS) services in the Territory of Guam for the Commander, Naval Forces Marianas. The BOS services to be performed include, but are not limited to, general management and administration services; command and staff (public affairs office); public safety (safety and contingency); port operations; ordnance; galley; facilities management; sustainment, restoration/modernization; facilities services; utilities (potable water, wastewater, electrical, and steam); base support vehicles and equipment; and environmental. The current total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $285,376,847. Work will be performed at various installations in the U.S. Territory of Guam, and work for this option is expected to be Dec. 31, 2009. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command Marianas, Naval Base, Guam is the contracting activity.
ITT Electronic Systems, Clifton, N. J., is being awarded a $32,093,118 modification to a previously awarded firm fixed price contract (N00019-05-C-0054) to exercise an option for the procurement of 12 AN/ALQ-214 On-Board Jammer Systems and 41 spare ALQ-214 Weapon Replacement Assembly units for the F/A-18E/F Aircraft. Work will be performed at various locations throughout the United States (43.5 percent); Clifton, N.J., (34.4 percent); East Syracuse, N.Y., (8.8 percent); San Diego, Calif., (8.3 percent); and Rancho Cordova, Calif., (5 percent), and is expected to be completed in Dec. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
Kollmorgen Elecro-Optical Corp., Northampton, Mass., is being awarded a $9,313,962 indefinite delivery indefinite quantity, cost plus fixed fee contract for field services, repair and support services for the AN/BVS-1 and the Photonics Mast Variant (PMV) Photonics Imaging System. Tasking will include initial equipment installation and subsequent repair and maintenance that is required during submarine new construction. The tasking will also included post-construction repairs, maintenance and equipment removal and post construction installations. Work will be performed in Groton, Conn., (70 percent) and Northampton, Mass., (30 percent), and is expected to be completed by Dec. 2013. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured with one offer received via Federal Business Opportunities and on the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Newport, contracts web site. The Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Newport is the contracting activity (N66604-09-D-0058).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Turbo Combustor Technology, Inc., Stuart, Fla.*, is being awarded a maximum $12,195,000 firm fixed price, total set aside, indefinite quantity contract for F-15 afterburner flameholders. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Air Force. Proposals were originally solicited through DIBBS with two responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Dec. 18, 2009. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Richmond, Richmond, Va.,
(SPM4A7-09-D-0014).
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., Stratford, Conn., is being awarded a maximum $9,551,784 firm fixed price, undefinitized contractual action, contract for main rotor blades manufacture components. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Navy. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was originally a sole source competition. The date of performance completion is Aug. 31, 2011. The contracting activity is the DLR Procurement Operations (DSCR-ZC), DLA Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa.,
(N00383-06-G-006F-TH01).
ARMY
Smiths Detection, Inc, Edgewood, Md., was awarded on Dec 9, 2008 a, $65,498,978 commercial firm fixed price contract for Joint Chemical Detector. Work will be performed in Edgewood, Md., with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2010. One bid was solicited and one bid was received. US Army RDECOM Acquisition Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground Contracting Division, Edgewood Division, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W911SR-07-C-0054).
Booz, Allen, Hamilton, Inc, McLean, Va., was awarded on Dec. 9, 2008, a $33,700,000 cost plus fixed fee price contract. This contract is in support of Foreign Military Sales Requirement for Saudi Arabia under Case No. SR-B-VTC for Sword Project Management Office Augmentation Support. Work will be performed in Saudi Arabia, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2011. One bid was solicited and one bid was received. US Army Research, Development, and Engineering Command, Acquisition Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W91CRB-09-C-0023).
Thor Defense Inc, Downers Grove, Ill., was awarded on Dec. 9, 2008 a, $5,746,583 firm fixed price contract for 222,219 Close Quarters Battle Kit Multi Magazine Holders. Work will be performed in Downers Grove, Ill., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 25, 2013. Bids solicited were via the Web and seven bids were received. Army Contracting Command, Joint Munitions & Lethality, Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15QKN-08-D-0027).
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